I attended the funeral of a friend
and solemnly listened to the praises
from all his friends and family
as they spoke their loving phrases:

"He was always there for me."
"He made me smile every day."
"The greatest friend I'll ever have."
"I loved him more than words can say."

As they spoke their tender thoughts,
and passed the tissue box around,
I thought it was a shame indeed
that he couldn't hear a sound.

Did he realize how they loved him?
Did they tell him? Did he know?
Did they share with him how much he meant
before he had to go?

Yesterday, last week or month,
when they had the chance somehow,
did they speak to him the sentiments
that they are speaking now?

"If only I'd have known,"
someone uttered through their sorrow.
"But you did," I silently replied.
"No one is guaranteed tomorrow."

We all know this simple truth
and yet we hesitate
to share our thoughts and feelings
until often, it's too late.

Reach out to friends and loved ones
so your heart won't be broken
when you're writing in a eulogy
the words you should've spoken.

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© Linda Ellis. All rights reserved.