Being bedside 

While a loved one 

Prepares for heaven 

Brings newfound clarity. 

Not to be missed.  

**

Shared stories of 

What is most treasured 

From our brief season here. 

All return back to this. 

**

Not our achievements 

Nor the titles we held. 

Not possessions we gathered 

Nor the work we produced.  

**

Every. Single. Memory. 

Recalled the people we met. 

Love freely given. 

Talks round the table. 

And experiences we shared. 

**

As we gather together 

New memories are formed. 

Deeper bonds are built. 

Celebrating a legacy 

That continues in new ways.  

**

From Heaven 

You will smile. 

Watching how your life 

Connected so many others.  

Echoing for generations to come.  

**

And for us who remain 

Our lesson is clear. 

Each person precious. 

Each day a gift. 

As we slow and savor, this 

Time.