It has been a long journey, one filled with beginnings

And, my loved ones, this is just one ending

Of a novel, of a story among many others

Let them say I stood as tall as a redwood

Let them say I was more than a man

Let them say I shared in the joy of life

Let them say my laughter was infectious

I have loved and been loved greatly

Know that I love all of the good times

Let them rouse a sounding cheer

One to drown out the trumpets of heaven

Let them pray and hear the words spoken

Let them speak in tones of reverence about the man I was

Let them know that for years to come I will still be there

-Never to be forgotten-

Let them say what they will of me as long as I have your love

When I come to those gates, I will give my love and stories to those who have passed before me

I will tell them of my time and whisper the jokes I have learned

So I ask, not for you to cry, but rejoice in the time I was here

Recall the laughs and joys I have shared with you

Recall the times where we were happy

Let them know I’m fishing

Let me depart with your words of love as I have left you with words of wisdom

I will live on within your heart and memories