Reality says........they've passed away
......Is not......perception.........reality......
For I feel...a living presence...as though
.......They stand....right next......to me
Those guiding hands.......of long ago
........So firm....against.....my brow
As strong and gentle...as yesterday
...Is the warmth....which I....know now
That legacy of.........the distant past
.........Still................a mighty roar
Memories.....sustain.........my soul
.....And on...whose wings....I soar
Reality says......they've passed away
...Silenced.......in death......and then
Perception says...they're just...as close
....And real....as way.......back when
James B. Earley
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/is-not-perception-reality/