Brother Poem by Neil Graham Marsden

What greater love have I to find
than that which healed this broken mind.
A soul who cradled through each night
a tiny child transfixed in fright.

Who taught me how real love is free
whilst shielding violence meant for me.
Whose hands would hide my eyes from pain
whilst risking punishment again.

Whose gentleness sang songs to me
of days when he and I would be
Toy soldiers in a world away
from all the things I’d heard that day.

Whose bruised and beaten heart held strong
to hold me through the winter long.
A child who selflessly gave out
a love in measure beyond doubt.

Who went to prove without regret
that his would be the standard set,
then went without a last goodbye,
leaving just memories of love and I.