'Pleasantville Gold Rush'
'Orlando Caruso (RIP) 1/82-9/12'
© Raul Cortes Jr. 9/6/12
The impact you had, there won't be another to me.
I'm the only child up north, cousin by blood but you were like a brother to me.
My favorite football team, picked it because it was yours, so what.
I love & cherish all of my uncle's family to this day, but I saw you as the "Gold Rush".
Razor-wit, bold & sometimes unpredictable.
I aspired for the same, so you were the one to listen to.
Straight from the projects demeanor, with rich-white man's intelligence.
I remember you listened to Sean, Nasir & Christopher. Rap hasn't been the same ever since.
1st rap cd mom bought me, was your favorite at the time.
BTNH, East 1999.
Introduced me to mixtapes when I didn't have a "Clue?".
& the primary reason why I played basketball too.
We played at my house as teens, you told me not to say how you're so great.
Since I did anyway, you were compelled to make 3-pointers with your back to the gate.
Some say suicide is a weak & selfish act.
But 12 years in the navy with 5 left, sounds like a death-trap.
The address that housed you, is where I 1st played 'chess'.
I wish you knew in advance, the navy would 'pawn' you like the rest.
I saw you about a month ago, before that it was ten years.
Suddenly I get the call that you're gone, I'm at my job frantically in tears.
I pray your wife & children grow as strong as you.
But not far away for long as you.
You was a real tough dude, tougher than those who sold drugs.
But now I understand, when I went to shake your hand for the last time, why you gave me a real-tight hug.
Love you cousin, rest in peace & in my blood & braincells.
The aviation-electrician mate, Petty Officer 1st Class, escaped well.
©polo
P