I Said Goodbye

As these last few days of 2013 slip away, I say goodbye to what was for me a bitter year of sadness and change. 

I said goodbye to five family members and three friends this year.

Do not stand at my grave and weep

I am not there. I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.

I am the diamond glints on snow.

I am the sunlight on ripened grain.

I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awaken in the morning's hush

I am the swift uplifting rush

Of quiet birds in circled flight.

I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry;

I am not there. I did not die.

- Mary Elizabeth Frye