In 2009, when I met someone who would become a dear friend and colleague, I wrote this poem. I knew, when I was introduced to him, that he was not like many other people I had met in publishing. He truly was a reflection of my self. He was a reflection of my consciousness.

I could tell he was kind. He didn’t put on fronts like others had. I knew My God brought him into my life for a reason, and he has made my life sweet and happy like the fruit on the vine.

FRUIT OF THE VINE

Friends like you
Come once in a lifetime!

Friends like you
Are one of a kind!

Friends like you
Share openly
All the time!

But most importantly,
My friend,
Your heart is divine!

As the One Almighty knew
What kind of person you were
So he brought us together
Only to sweeten the
Fruits of the vine!