When I Must Leave...

When I must leave you for a little while – please do not grieve and

shed wild tears and hug your sorrow to you throughout

the years.  But start out bravely with a gallant smile, and for my

sake and in my name, live on and do all things the same.

Feed not your loneliness on empty days, but fill each waking hour

in useful ways.  Reach out your hand in comfort and in cheer

and I in turn will comfort you and hold you near.

And never, never be afraid to die, For I am waiting for you in the sky.