Do not stand

By my grave, and weep,

I am not there,

I do not sleep--

I am the thousand winds that blow,

I am the diamond glints in snow.

I am the sunlight on ripened grain,

I am the gentle, autumn rain.

As you awake with morning's hush,

I am the swift, up-flinging rush

Of quiet birds in circling flight.

I am the day transcending night.

Do not stand

By my grave, and cry--

I am not there,

I did not die.

It was beautiful

As long as it lasted

The journey of my life.

I have no regrets

Whatsoever, save

The pain I’ll leave behind.

Those dear hearts

Who love and care

And the heavy-with-sleep,

Ever-moist eyes.

The smile, in spite of a

Lump in the throat

And the strings pulling

At the heart and soul.

The strong arms

That held me up

When my own strength

Let me down.

Each morsel that I was

Fed with, was full of love divine.

At every turning of my life

I came across

Good friends.

Friends who stood by me

Even when the time raced by.

Farewell, farewell,

My Friends

I smile and bid you goodbye.

No, shed no tears,

For I need them not

All I need is your smile.

If you feel sad,

Think of me

For that’s what I’d like.

When you live in the hearts

Of those you love,

Remember then….

You never die.