When I was thirteen
You were one year younger then
I gave you a present
Rehearsed my little speech
You accepted it with a smile
That made all the worry worthwhile
A simple act of kindness

Leaving to go to UCSB
Bags packed in my mother's Honda Accord
You gave me a birthday card
Wishing me well as always
You kissed me once and waved me on
Standing by until I was long since gone
A simple act of kindness

As my wonderful marriage fell to pieces
Your sound advice held the truth
Hours together, late on the telephone
You made sure I would be all right
A voice that understood
With words gentle, a heart unbroken
Your secret unspoken
A simple act of kindness

This is the day of regrets
I never said, "I love you."
I feel sorry for the ones who'll forget even a single day
Three roses on your grave
The one time I can give back what you left for me
A simple act of kindness

[December 04, 1992 & April 23, 1998]