On Dying

Today
you’re in paradise.
Death not final
mere completion
of act 1.
Celebrate.
Rejoice.
Welcome to eternity.

For those you love
separation brings pain.
Grief at losing
friend.
Sorrow at missing
beloved.
The greater love
sharper pain of loss.

To those
left in bitter pain.
Rejoice.
I’ve wiped away tears.
Rejoice.
Now is fullness of glory.
Rejoice.
Know true hope & joy.
© December 28, 2001 Presbypoet
This is a hard time of year
to learn this lesson.
There never is an easy one.
Presbypoet December 13, 2004