Simple Instructions Poem by Ernest Hilbert

Bury me with a book open on my chest,
As if I'd fallen asleep while reading it.
Bury me on the couch where I napped.
Please aim my muddy feet toward the east
So I fail to enjoy one more sunset.
Leave the grave soil loose, so I won't feel trapped.
In the spring, I want to hear bird and toad.
Bring my tabby, the one with toffee streaks,
When you visit, so he can hear them too.
Death collects a debt you forgot you owed,
And he does his job for both strong and weak.
He runs out the clock and then comes for you.
After you leave me, remember, for a bit,
How we were young once, and joked about it.