When I Must Leave You!

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 the 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

~ Helen Steiner Rice ~