I have seen the meaning of life lived out
in death; seen how love transforms;
The loss, the pain, the deeds we all regret
death brings about a new norm.

I have watched the dying minister to,
friends and family alike;
Spending their final days in giving, through
redefining the fight.

Family, friends, strangers — the death-grip’s presence,
The unfortunate whole inclined;
Hoping to give away some of their essence…
Death cares for no gifts sublime;

Time’s not a friend when the angel of death
is waiting, stalking its prey;
Yet time is empty as we journey forth
Our life-force drains away.

Death — it can walk us to the edge of time,
Take time — sit with the dying;
We will learn more about life, in kind
than in all earthly striving…