WHEN I MUST LEAVE YOU

When I must leave you for a little while
Please do not grieve and shed wild tears
And hug your sorrow to you
Through the years,
But start out bravely with a gallant smile;
And for my sake, and in my name,
Live on and do all things the same.

Feed not your loneliness on empty days,
But fill each waking hour in useful ways,
Reach out your hand in comfort
And in cheer,
And I in turn will comfort you and
Hold you near;
And never, never be afraid to die,
For I am waiting for you in the sky.