Tuesday 24 February 2009

A Life of Value

these lives are lived with courage and hope
each time we choose we learn to cope

easy to die before you´re gone
to give up trying and sing no songs

a life a classroom; each friend a lesson
assignments are due: here comes the next one

all those we meet they tell a story
from them we learn; aspire to glory

so listen well and listen true
as wisdom they impart to you

before too late awake we must
take on our work before we´re dust

each life is short; there´s much to do
live and learn and seek anew

spread the word; awaken spirits
tell of love: praise its merits

what we once knew we have forgotten
remember now and tell it often
~~~~~~~~~~~

Dedicated to my parents, the Salt of the Earth, mom & dadwho taught me many lessons in life, many while dying, whose spirits remain in my heart.
Read more in my Memoir: Living and Dying in Dignity: A daughter's journey through long-term care. I continue to read and research about Health Care Issues.

5 comments:

Deb said...

A beautiful tribute to much-loved people. Thanks for letting me read it.

Frank Baron said...

Very nice tribute Jenn. And herons have a special significance for me. It was a treat to see that one in your photo.

James said...

The third line is so true and yet so easily forgotten.

SweetTalkingGuy said...

You must have loved then very much and this has wonderful memories for you.

The Weaver of Grass said...

Brilliant Jenn. And so true.
As we get older we have to keep going, keep learning, keep moving on - once we stop we are done for.