Brother Tom

1. Brother Tom 
   By Nate Bender 
   11/25/2013
   
   
   Brother Tom, being a year younger than me,
   Stands out as my first friend, making for early and enduring ties.
   
   
   Calm and gentle in the core of his nature, 
   Tom’s manner often balanced my own rough edges.
   
   
   Liked by all, loved by most,
   Tom’s nature became an interpersonal strength, when reception was allowed.
   
   
   Via the leanings of his genetic makeup, and the Divine,
   A basketball player Tom became.
   
   
   His near-seven foot frame took him to college and beyond,
   Landing in far-away lands of Australia, Europe and Israel.
   
   
   Tom was more than an athlete,
   He was far and away, a child of God.
   
   
   Tom touched the lives of ever so many people,
   Friends, students, colleagues and relatives alike.
   
   
   Tom’s mark on the world community is immeasurable, yet profound,
   Held in the very fibers of all who received his glowing touch.
   
   
   Thanks for being my brother, 
   For being the person who knows me most.
   
   
   Here’s looking to meet up with you in the great beyond.
   
   
   Deep love from your brother Nate