If

If

If I should live yet another twenty years,

May I always cling to those I hold dear.

In this moment, the shadowy path I see,

I search my heart for words that I may speak.

If I should remember those faces that linger,

I’ll remember that all were givers and some were singers.

But regardless of what each of them was to others,

They were part of a family, my sisters and brothers.

If I should write upon some vacant stock paper,

Of their lives, their love, and their giving nature.

I’ll show how much they’ll be missed,

Whether with a grateful heart or gestured kiss.

If I should recant those wonderful years,

It would be to share them with those I hold dear.

The trying and yearning to share all we could,

Of our lives, our families' visions, it was understood.

If I should be given the right to bring them all back,

I’d come to the conclusion that that power I lack.

For to let someone go who has finished their course,

Is to understand our place in the timeless discourse.

Eternity has opened and called for them to come,

But it isn’t any easier and my soul remains numb.

A flood of tears, salty reminders that I’m still here.

In time, I too will cease to tremble like those so dear.

So, walk into your reward whatever it may be,

Those of you are covered by grace and mercy.

And, in time, I too will take my place,

Where those with faith live in eternal embrace.