The Choice

He came to me one sleepless night And caught me unaware. Within the darkness of my room, I saw him standing there. ‘Twas an angel sent from heaven, Entrusted with a task, To deliver me a message, With a question to ask. I gave my wife a gentle nudge, In hopes of waking her. But in spite of my persistence, I could not make her stir. The angel passed his message on, With sadness in his voice. "Your wife or you must come with me, But you must make the choice." I wasn't sure how to respond, To what he'd said to me. I felt a tear roll down my cheek When asked: "Who shall it be?" With all my might, I hugged my wife; And though she couldn't hear, I said: "I will always love you." Then kissed her on her ear. Looking back at the messenger, I gave him my reply. ‘Tis she who will be joining you, If one of us must die. From the moment that I saw you, My doubts all passed away. God's paradise awaits the one Who leaves with you this day. The one who then must stay behind, Will be lost and forlorn, Afflicted by the memories; With naught to do but mourn. I saw the angel smile at me, As the room filled with light. And in the way he had appeared, He faded from my sight. His final words rang in my ears, And left me reassured. "Because you answered as you did, He's pleased with what He heard." "Together, you will now grow old, Your love forever true. And I'll return to paradise To pave the way for you." And when my wife began to stir She asked what made me weep. As I wrapped my arms around her, I said: go back to sleep. These tears I cry are tears of joy, I'm blessed more than I knew. Tonight I was reminded of The gift I have in you.