To the Memory of Jim Dang Angry, selfish, vengeful, I had asked only one small favor, That I could say "I love you" once more To you, who liked Southern California Warmth, your family, the breeze From the sea tossing the hair You so despaired of losing. You bring a sad smile to my face, You who were trapped in a world That embraced with unloving arms. Did justice sleep? Where was good hiding? Behind the prophets of our religions? Hiding from you in the Castro One rainy Sunday while you And your trenchcoat huddled, Not caring about the chill in your bones, About the wasting away, And just waited for the ride that always seemed To be on its way? Thomas McMillan February 17, 1999