Poem: Tombstone Legacy
From birth to earth, the time goes by so fast,
In history a scene so very short,
And yet a legacy is built we hope to last,
Of lives we’ve changed and joy to others brought.
The seasons come and drift on by,
Each phase an opportunity to leave
Indelible marks that tell the reasons why
We hold to what within our hearts believe.
The point of life, not ever clearer made
Than when the grave our last breath takes a hold.
What was the message of the path we laid?
What will our children’s children still be told?
A name upon a tombstone has no voice
Unless it spoke with passion when in song,
To show compassion, freedom of a choice
To stand up for what is right and what is wrong.
The value of our life is not in wealth,
Success cannot be measured by our gold,
True treasure is in the hurt we brought to health,
Reward is in the truth we freely told.
Don’t close your eyes on life’s last glimpse
With deep regret running down your cheek,
Understand that value lies within
The acts, the motives, and the very words you speak.
A difference made in another’s life
Is the goal that marks success,
To think outside our own insecurities and strife
To lift up others more and our own selves less.