When I am gone, release me, let me go.
I have so many things to see and do,
You mustn’t tie yourself to me with too many tears,
But be thankful we had so many good years.I gave you my love, and you can only guess
How much you’ve given me in happiness.
I thank you for the love that you have shown,
But now it is time I traveled on alone.So grieve for me a while, if grieve you must,
Then let your grief be comforted by trust.
It is only for a while that we must part,
So treasure the memories within your heart.I won’t be far away for life goes on.
And if you need me, call and I will come.Though you can’t see or touch me, I will be near.
And if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear,
All my love around you soft and clear.And then, when you come this way alone,
I’ll greet you with a smile and a ‘Welcome Home’.
Life
A memorial poem by Sir Francis Bacon about the nature of life and death, suitable as a funeral reading or memorial quotation.