The Saga Of Robert Gates Poem by Bill Grace

He came to Charlie's table
When Charlie came to his predecssor's office.
Forty years of service to eight Presidents,
If this data is correct I have not checked,
The Press has discovered Bob Gates.

Mr. Gates wisely understands the press 'worm can turn.'
AlThough I find 'the power of the press' a more apt phrase
As I too join the Bob Gates craze
But perhaps out of a different motivation than those
Who must file stories to please editors and ultimately readers.

This is an instinct call out here in cyberland
A peasant looking at The Grand
I swear I saw pain in Gates manicured frame
Though just beneath the surface as appropriate for a holder of great office.

The question was why there was so much attention all of a sudden.
The unspoken answer is that he has always been the same
It is we who have changed and after forty years see
A wise man to help guide us through turbulent waters.
I sip my coffee from the cup with the Great Seal
It is worth a little more this morning.