Elegy in the Pavement

Went you, brave girl
to work for a cause so noble
that many wouldn't dare attempt.

You were to embark on a trek
75 miles by bike under the sun,
having fun, supporting a cause.

Yet on that day, there was no sun,
but you set out to ride,
doing what you felt was right.

So many riders on a dangerous day,
while the rain hammered from one side,
and the thunder shook you on the other
as you pedaled on to the Keys.

But what happened
on the way?
I heard little of your ride.

I worked for the same cause you did,
toiled through the same rains,
hollering over the same thunder.

I heard not of your departure
until warmth met me for the first time
in the drenching cold of the day.

While cavorting in the warmth,
they announced your death,
and soon I received the first tears, none my own.

So many riders on a dangerous day,
while the rain hammered from one side,
and the thunder shook you on the other,
as you pedaled on to the Keys.

I've yet to learn your fate,
Maybe I shouldn't,
but I still mourn.

We lost you while we
pedaled, organized and hauled
for a noble cause.

I know the work you had given,
as I've done it myself, pedalling the course
that claimed your life.

So many riders on a dangerous day,
while the rain hammered from one side,
and the thunder shook you on the other,
as you pedaled your way to the Keys.

It was meant to be fun and triumphant,
soaking up the sun, as you
rode on in a fight against disease.

Then the sun disappeared, and the rains came
sweeping you up into the heavens,
pulling you from the cause.

From this we shall continue the fight,
as you would want us to go on, so we shall
and mend the chasm next year.

So many riders on a dangerous day,
while the rain hammered from one side,
and the thunder shook you on the other,
as you pedaled your way to the Keys.