When I stand by the river

Photo by Nastia Petruk on Unsplash

When I stand by the river let me tarry awhile
Before I drink and, in drinking, forget.
Let me recall each face I have loved with a smile
And the hope that my passing they will not regret.

When I stand by the river, let me recall the sun
And the moon, and the stars, and the feeling of awe
That in all of this vastness there is only one
Of every last person or thing that I saw.

When I stand by the river, let me try to let go
Of the slights and the hurts and resentment and pain.
Let me strive to forgive all who've given me woe;
For I'll never know hurt or resentment again.

When I stand by the river and I'm ready to drink
Let me do so without any falter or pause.
Into the dark let me knowingly sink,
For my words and my deeds never garnered applause.

1/15/2025