The paper was yellow from age,
The handwriting looked shaky on the page.
It had been tied by a tattered ribbon of blue
Carefully tucked away for a later date it's true.

There was the distinct smell of peppermint.
I found myself drawn to the sentiment
That expressed to all a fond goodbye.
And a fervent plea not to cry

This was how the epistle read:
Cautioned "only for after I am dead!!"
Over thirty years ago I was asked to compose,
An epitaph or document of repose.

A difficult task I must declare .
Who else could adequately prepare
What I would want people to remember .
My friends, co-workers and family members.

I am a child of God, all that I am and all that I have done.
I owe to the Lord and to His precious son.
I am first of all a wife and Mother according to God's plan.
Then a nurse and devoted to service to my fellow man.

Anything else recalled is like frosting on a cake.
The only serious comment can I truly make.
Is please remember I loved and was loved in return.
For, through love, it is Heaven we earn

I folded the paper like it was when I found it.
Mulling over what I had read and must admit.
It was clear and concise and to the point.
Taking steps not to disappoint.

Perhaps I'll put it away for a later time
Because I now realize it was mine

©Carol G Oliver RN
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In Ecclesiastes 3, it says:
To every thing there is a season,
and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die;
a time to plant, and a time to pluck up
that which is planted;