so the years left us

with pain, love and light

we carry lines of struggle

and cries under night

–

minutes tease with hope

seconds steal the breath

at last the faithful one

from birth is partner death

–

quiet with you in joy

holds your hand through pain

a comfort at the end

as you journey home again

–

hush now and travel

there’s no color here

hold fast to the faithful

that original buccaneer