Today’s poem: “Quiet Celebration”
Quiet Celebration
Musical genius
Accomplished beyond measure
Hands of magnificence
His instrument sang
Its velvet tones
Arco, legato
The bass
Troubled soul
Touched by brilliance
The music was
His language
A place of peace
Resonant, doleful
My brother
Taken too soon
Special day
No balloons or fanfare
I quietly celebrate
My little brother’s
Birthday
In loving memory of Sean Kelly Ball,
March 20, 1970 – February 28, 1997
Author: Lanny Ball
For more than 29 years, Lanny has taught, coached, presented, staff developed, and consulted within the exciting and enigmatic world of literacy. With unyielding passion and belief in the possibility of workshop teaching, Lanny has worked to support students, teachers, and school administrators around the country in outgrowing themselves as both writers and readers. Working first as a classroom teacher, then as a coach and TCRWP Staff Developer, Lanny is now a literacy specialist, working and living in the great state of Connecticut. Outside of literacy, he enjoys raising his three ambitious young daughters with his wife, and playing the piano. Find him on this blog, as well as on Twitter @LannyBall. Lanny is also a former co-author of a blog dedicated to supporting writing teachers and coaches that maintain classroom writing workshops, twowritingteachers.org.
View all posts by Lanny Ball
LANNY BALL, Literacy Specialist 
A truly beautiful tribute. You’re in my thoughts.
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Thank you, Lorie.
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Having lost my own brother “taken too soon” this really resonated with me. Sending you out some positive energy as you quietly celebrate his birthday. This is truly beautiful.
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Sorry to hear you lost your brother, too. Thank you for your generous feedback.
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Lovely. Took my breath away when I read the ending. So much feeling, still strong after so many years. May the memory always live.
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Thank you, Diane. Don’t know why Year 20 is so poignant. I appreciate your kind words. 🙂
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This is a magnificent tribute to your beloved little brother. There is no date or formal way to “celebrate” a loved ones loss, but I know it helps me to do a random act of kindness. My loved little brother passed away in his early 40s and I acknowledge his passing by paying for a coffee for a random person behind me in line. My brother adored his DD and I think he smiles every year. I know I sometimes tear up though. Wishing you comfort and fond memories of your brother.
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Thanks so much for sharing that with me. That is such a lovely idea.
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Your poem took my breath away, Lanny. I love that music was your brother’s “place of peace.” I hope it is for you as well.
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This is a touching way to celebrate the memory of someone so special to you. Gorgeous poem.
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A beautiful reminder of how your brother still lives within you.
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