I LEARNED TODAY OF THE DEATH of Kirk Douglas. He was 103.
In the eyes of many he lived an exemplary life. I remember his cleft chin from his movies. In my younger days I wanted to be muscular like he appeared in his award winning movie, Spartacus - Great pecs, Kirk!
His autobiography came my way over these last few years and in it he composed a poem about the death of one of his sons who had become addicted to drugs. It really made a mark in my life. It follows below, and I thank him for this piece of art. It makes me cry.
As he wished, he is now with his son, and that makes me happy.
For Eric
I sit by your grave and weep,
Silently, not to disturb your sleep.
Rest in peace my beautiful son
It won't be long before we are one,
While I lie down by your side.
And talk, no secrets to hide.
Tell me, Eric, what did I do wrong?
What should I have done to make you strong?
Now I sit here and cry,
Waiting to be with you when I die.
Kirk Douglas from Life Could be Verse.