Dear DJ
By JM
Dear DJ,
I feel so left alone down here, but I know that ain’t the case
Memories throughout the years
The laughter and the tears, the love from all our peers
We set off on many journeys together to conquer all our fears
Now I cry so many tears
And though you feel so far away
I know you’re very near, I feel your presence everyday
Man, it devastated my heart to hear you passed away
But God has the final command—I hope mercy finds you in every way
I pray to be half the man you were, to earn God’s mercy in my own way
But for now I gonna keep on living hard
You wouldn’t have it any other way
Plus I gotta look at it this way, I gotta help your kids to gain
Then I smile at your smiling faces to cope with all the pain
Sometimes it seems like time is stuck in place, still hear echoes of your name
Could’ve swore I heard you call me the other day
Don’t take it wrong I can explain
My first cousin, but more close to me like a brother
Got love for you like a mother
There is peace believe it or not
I am struggling just to keep my face clean, I love you straight from my heart.
4 Comments
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The poets featured here are currently incarcerated, and many of them are in federal prisons far from home. Your feedback is a valuable source of motivation and connection to the outside community. Post your comments, feedback, and encouragement in the space below the poem. Messages will be passed on directly to the author. Comments may not appear immediately on the site, as our team processes them to mail to the poets.
Your poem is so moving! It’s very powerful and full of emotion!
What a beautiful heartfelt poem. I hope you are able to find peace in losing someone so close to you.
JM,
I am sure that DJ heard this letter, which reads like a poem. It’s absurd for me to leave you feedback on a heartfelt letter that you wrote for your dear cousin. Your letter is sincere and describes all of the complicated emotions you are feeling, not just about DJ, but about everything that has affected and influenced you. I think your letter inspired hope, because you write with gentleness and vulnerability.
With regard to the literary elements you incorporated in your writing, I am struck by your use of rhyme. I think it’s hard to find words that appropriately rhyme every other line, yet you have done it!!!!
JM,
I am sorry for your loss, but you crafted a beautiful tribute for your cousin! You documented your memories and bond with heartfelt language and I’m sure your cousin is proud of you trying to make better decisions. Keep writing, I’d love to see what you come out with next!