by Steve Andreas
If I knew…
For certain
That I would die tomorrow
And that the memories that I took with me
Into that great beyond
Would live with me forever
(And I with them!)
What events would I choose
To be my companions on that long, dark journey?
Casual indifferences, Intentional hurts
Devastating losses and disappointments
Cruel injustices, Righteous anger
Gratuitous violence and destruction
Heavy burdens that darken the spirit
And chill and still the beating heart?
Or other memories…
Great courage, unswerving loyalty
Patience that quietly endures, Honesty at great cost
Truth that brings tears, Beauty that takes the breath
Gratitude that opens the heart at the smallest gift
Love that passeth all misunderstanding?
Memories as light in the mind
As the breeze from a butterfly’s wings
Yet solid and sustaining as the core of the earth
Drawing everything near to its warm heart
And if I knew…
For certain
That I would live a thousand years
Would I choose differently?