From His Deathbed Poem by Kathleen Reguindin

The ravages of time have wrestled his body down
Now the simple act of walking no longer possible
In younger days, he was a man so formidable
With the passage of time, he eventually lost the battle.

Sharpness and clarity of mind have disappeared
And illness has overtaken a once healthy body.
Body wracked with pain, breathing belaboured.
Mobility has come to an end, confined to his bed.

Slowed down, weakened, defeated
His shell has eroded, decimated
A tower of strength, a once youthful body
All that is gone, it is just but a faint, a distant memory.

As he lies in bed, awaiting to move on
Knowing that all is soon coming to an end.
Surrounded by loved ones, he senses their presence, their breaths
Through the hazy curtains separating life from death.

As his essence slowly begins to separate from his shell
He takes one glance at them, with love in his soul
Through the white gossamer fabric in his eyes, silently
In his heart, he says “Oh my loved ones, don’t you cry for me.”

“Hear me as I say to you what my life has been about.
I lived a full life, of that there is no doubt.
I lived my life as best as I knew.
I traveled to many places, had the most amazing experiences.

Along the way I learned many life lessons
Blessings were many throughout my lifetime
Beautiful experiences with strangers, family and friends.
A pauper I was materially, but a King I was when it came to real living!

“The challenges I faced and troubles I suffered
They all but molded me to be of stronger character
I made amends where there was wrongdoing by me
And those who have committed transgression against me I have forgiven.
I learned that only when we are true to our word and live with integrity
That we can be at peace, no demons to bother our conscience incessantly.

“Don’t cry for me, I have peace and love in my heart
But one thing I must share with you, before from this earth I depart.
My only wish is for you to realize you have but one life
Don’t waste it all on pettiness, trivialities, or empty wishes.

“Do not allow life’s failures to beat you down, never accept defeat!
Go for your goals, be strong, stay determined, just commit
What you can do now, do it now, don’t wait
Pursue your life’s passions, don’t’ leave life to fate!

Surround yourself only by those who enrich your life
Remove from your circle those that cause negativity and strife.
Keep close to your heart those whom you treasure
The moments you spend with them forever cherish.”