Before you go words must be spoken.

The memories you leave behind will not be forgotten.

Every aspect of your beautiful soul will still grace the earth

even if your presence physically is unattainable

If you must die, leave behind your perfect patience.

Your patience for Sunday drivers in a small town.

your patience for your demanding boss.

your patience for me and my ignorant attitudes.

If you must die, leave behind your blissful beauty.

Your beautiful soul that cared for everyone.

Your beautiful smile that brings light to every situation.

Your beautiful voice that has the power to sooth hurricanes.

If you must die, leave behind the momentous memories

Your warm hugs on those stormy frightening nights

Your silly stories you would tell before bed

Your perfect coloring skills – you always stayed in the lines

If you must die, leave behind the prominent pieces of you

They will live though all of us and especially me

But if you must die, take our long-lasting love with you

Hold it dear to your heart and know you will not be forgotten

If you must die know that I will forever love you