Via Om, I wanted to share this poem Away by James Whitcomb Riley:
I cannot say, and I will not say
That he is dead. He is just away.
With a cheery smile, and a wave of the hand,
He has wandered into an unknown land
And left us dreaming how very fair
It needs must be, since he lingers there.
And you—oh you, who the wildest yearn
For an old-time step, and the glad return,
Think of him faring on, as dear
In the love of There as the love of Here.
Think of him still as the same. I say,
He is not dead—he is just away.
My friend has gone away he died and rose again … He then went away promising to return one day … where has he gone he said you know the way … he s given me new life and that s no lie … one day when I die I ll see my friend and were he s living … Alan 🙂
Pertinent timing for me. Thanks for sharing, Matt.
Lovely… may I also share one of mine: a tribute to my father-in-law. Thank you.
Time Remaining
Here is the beloved one, in hospital bed a-lying.
Monitors all disconnected now, the old sailor knows he’s dying.
With it, the family understands, it’s what he’s been wanting.
Sick and unable to move, these past few weeks been daunting.
Above a computer screen urgently flashes … no time remaining.
Yet he lives on – in slumber-induced sleep – ever weighing his staying.
He hears well the nurse’s instructions, adjusting his body again.
But he waits – until the last voice of loved ones, proved that they’ve been.
Now, the trial seems over, so clearly seen on his face.
With peace and contentment the new order, all worry’s been replaced.
A life worth celebrating, his favourite music plays.
Drinks all ‘round is called for … seems like old days.
And later, in the wee hours, when a last breath is drawn.
Under calm skies and time remaining, he sails into the dawn!