You have left us now,

Not forever.

Dear Norman.

Where did the time go?



So eloquently,

Slipping beneath our fingers,

Dodging our sweet notes of harmony.

Alacrity.



And where did our time go?

I see your furtive grin

And hear your booming voice -

Making September nights awkwardly

Fruitful.



I reach out to touch you

And you seem as distant as the stars,

When, in reality,

You are as close as the fragments of my

Heart.

Where did the time go?



I often see you.

Yes! Really, I do ...

In a crowd of unknown people,

You are the familiar face,

Leading the way.

Where did you go?



I Lived.

I Loved.

I Learned,

From you.

Inspiring days of memorable lore.

Where did the time go?



We shall meet some day,

Once

Again

Beyond my tender thoughts.



To see your face

In my dreams,

I shed only but a tear.

Knowing you are with me.

And I ask myself for the final time,

...Where did the time go?



This poem is in memory of Norman Gaudet who tragically passed away October 30, 1992. He instructed many high school bands and drum corps, through which he inspired many students of all ages.

He was loved by many and is missed by all.