This past week, my family lost a dear friend after a 10 year long and very courageous battle with cancer. She was an extraordinary woman and though we are all sad to see her go, we know she’s in much better and pain-free place. Yesterday, I attended her funeral and she had asked that her father read two poems, I Am Free being the first of the two. I was so moved by this poem and what it had to say, I wanted to share it with all of you in internetland. I am not sure who wrote this, as I never did find an author, but to know our friend wanted this read after her passing speaks worlds into the type of woman she was. She will truly be missed and never forgotten.
*****
I Am Free
Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free.
I’m following the path God has laid you see.
I took His hand when I heard Him call.
I turned my back and left it all.
I could not stay another day,
To laugh, to love, to work or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way.
I found that peace at the close of the day.
If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joys.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss,
Oh yes, these things I too will miss.
Be not burdened with times of sorrow.
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life’s been full, I savored much,
Good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch.
Perhaps my time seemed all too brief.
Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your hearts and peace to thee.
God wanted me now; He set me free!
*****
Lindsay, I’m so sorry to hear about your loss. This same poem was actually read at my brother’s funeral a few years ago, and it was very comforting to me at the time. You and your family will be in my prayers!
I’m so sorry for your loss. I had the privilege to meet this special woman. Her choice of this poem truly reveals how strong and precious she was to so many.