When we broke bread at Guisseppi’s
In Colorado Springs, last year,
My hearing dropped the “k” from Jake
And you responded, whenever
I said “Jay!” and I never knew
You were my fav’rite cartoonist.

My wife and your fine companion
Seemed to enjoy a common ground
And were gracious to each other.
It was their prodding that prompted
Our posing at the BAVA Banner.

 
   Jake & I at Colorado Springs (1998)

When I “met” you in Washington
I said that  “I haven’t met you,
Before . . .” And you stared at me . . . hurt
Showing in your eyes.  But, we talked.
And you never reminded me.

Throughout the rest of my journey,
Your face, wan, wasted by illness,
Haunted me.  The miles ran under
My wheels.  And then, I realized.
Someday, Jake, I’ll apologize.

A.E. L’dard       Airlift Memories ?