Never Say Goodbye

Friends, we were, for so long.

Always holding on to each other

Watching each other's back.

No matter what arose big or small.

Our bond was too deep, for one to comprehend.

Yet, one day it all changed.

You never laughed, you never smiled,

I tried to talk, but you said nothing new.

Fear groped me, as I thought I would lose you.

For even, after so many years, I still held on to you.

I found you, lying on the grass,

with a look miles away.

Together we sat, just like the old days.

No words were exchanged, and a silence ensued.

I waited as I knew you would continue

But, this time my heart felt , something was wrong.

And it wondered, whether I had taken too long.

'I am leaving' was all you said.

Before the tears broke out and continued to shed.

I tried to tell you to stop.

But it never came out atop.

I waited for you to say that it was all a lie

Alas! You had already left and I never got to say even a goodbye.

Eight years, it has been to that day.

Still, I don't know whether you are okay.

I could never forget you, and

truth be said I never tried.

You were my best friend.One who held me while I cried.

But now when I yearn for those hands

I realize that they are in a far off land.

So many things I wish to share.

But you're not here to care.

I was brought out of my reverie,

as the bell rang out.

Words could not describe what my tears or happiness were about.

As before me stood you with a stupid grin on your face.

And then you said, 'After all, you never said goodbye'

Priya Thomas
XI, St. Joseph’s Convent High School