LONGER POEM 8 > 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 through 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 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