We all face growing older
because time is not our friend,
and the past repeats inside our mind
as we get closer to the end.

So, I've been thinking lately
about the things that folks will say
when my feet no longer tread this earth,
and I have gone away.

I hope they'll say I didn't hesitate
to show them how I care,
and that they could count on me
when they needed someone there.

I hope they'll say that I was generous
with what I had to give.
I hope they'll say I shared my time
from the time I had to live.

I hope they'll say that I was loving --
that I had an open heart,
and that they still feel that love
even now that we're apart.

I hope they'll say I showed them kindness
in one hundred different ways.
I hope they'll say I added joy
and some laughter to their days.

I hope they'll say that I was loyal,
that I was always on their side,
and even when they failed,
I would praise how hard they tried.

I hope they'll say that I was real
in the things I'd say and do,
and that I'd fight
for what was right
if I believed it to be true.

But the thing I hope for most of all
when I've left this time and place,
is that the mention of my name
will bring a smile to their face.

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© Linda Ellis. All rights reserved.