Left Behind

You were with me to the very end.
And even after I had gone, you held me in your heart.
I wanted so to tell you that this was not your fault.
I tried to let you know, in my own way, that it was time.
I thank you for your understanding and strength to do what was right for me.

And now that I am gone, I know no other will take my place in your heart.
But I want you to love another and make him happy, as you have me.
You will think of me, and there will be times you'll try to hide your tear-filled eyes,
But please, be happy and think not of sadness,
but of how I made you laugh and all the things we shared.

Here, all of us who have been ill and old are restored to health and vigor.
Those hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again,
just as we're remembered in your dreams.
There is no pain here.

There are green pastures to lay down in and friends to run with.
There are no fences, for no one has the desire to leave,
There are meadows and hills, water and sunshine,
and we are warm and comfortable.
There is much to enjoy and explore, and I have been quite busy.

I am very happy,
even though I miss someone very special who I left behind.
The day will come when I will suddenly stop, and look into the distance.
My eyes will be intent, my body quivering eagerly,
when suddenly I begin to run from my herd flying over the green grass,
my legs carrying faster and faster.

For I have spotted you.
And when we finally meet, we'll cling together in reunion.
As your hand caress my head and neck,
and you look once more into my trusting eyes,
we will know that our reunion will be forever.

To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die.
Trust that there will come a time when precious memories will change your tears to smiles.
I leave this earth knowing my fate was always safest in your hands.
Thank you for loving me and having the courage to let go.
You helped me gently into the night. We will meet again.

(Author unknown)