Speak Gently of Me

Speak gently of me in the twilight hour of grace With kind words and thoughts, think of a better way When I shall reach the finishing line of life’s race. No stifled cries or keening when you see my face Remember the joys and triumphs of fond yesterday Speak softly of me in the twilight hour of grace. Strange we oft forget that all must forfeit space No mortal shall forever here in permanency stay When I shall reach the finishing line of life’s race Into the eternal gates of some ethereal place Consider it right and proper that I should stray Speak gently of me in the twilight hour of grace. No somber music, please; marchers keep the pace Bright-colored shirts; no suits of somber gray When I shall reach the finishing line of life’s race. Do not my "flawless" record at my wake deface Yes, laugh, be happy that here on earth you play Speak gently of me in the twilight hour of grace When I shall reach the finishing line of life’s race. FIRST PLACE WINNER Brian Strand's Poetry Contest written May 27, 2021 HONORABLE MENTION "Should I Cry or Laugh" Poetry Contest All Poetry - September 19, 2021