You cant buy a life

I watched you die tonight.

I didn’t know you more
Than three or four sentences

Just casual words exchanged,

“What happened to the car?”

“Where would you like it towed?”

You smiled, simply, kindly

Just doing your job

Just helping out a frightened girl

On the side of a dangerous highway.

I heard the noise

I did not see the car

What was she thinking?

How could she leave you there,

Speeding off in a frantic hurry like that?

It must have been fear, I decide.

All I remember were

The golden headlights

As I leapt in front of

Countless cars

Screaming, screaming,

“Stop! Stop!”

I pointed at your body

I did not dare to go too close.

The ambulance came.
They lit the flares.

The paramedic approached me-

“He’s passed.”

“Just five deep breaths.”

“It’s out of your control.”

And I learned tonight

You cannot buy a life

With unceasing sobs

And helpless prayers of pleading.

So I’m left to say,

Rest now, sir,

In the arms of the One who loves you most.

I asked Him to give you

His deepest place of love

I asked Him to care for

Your grieving family

I never got to meet your brother

Who, I overheard,

Was on his way

So all I have

Is your full name

R.L.C.

I’ll carry it forever with me.