When I must leave you for a while

When I must leave you for a 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 the things the same

Feed not your loneliness on empty days

But fill each working 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

Helen Steiner Rice