Lay me down

Bury me in our garden, Love; that time

so oft’ spoken of is nearly here.  When

I have grown still in your arms, when the warmth

of my heart has faded, carry me out.

Hold me close, Love, for this night brings a chill

that cuts deep to the core.  When I am gone,

when the damp earth must replace your loving

caress, bring me flowers; let them grow

where nought else could be grown.  I leave

you childless as found, but not untouched – ne’er

untouched.  Rosa, lilium, betula;

let them flourish where I could not.  But do

not once think me in cruel darkness my love,

for I can see the stars forever now.

Will I be lonely?  Oh, how cold is fear;

You are my world and bright heaven still but

-          God knows.  Did we ever tell Him, dear,

that our souls danced entwined ‘neath these dark skies?

Ah – the time is here!  I am torn from you;

the seasons have changed, and my world grows bleak.

Let me go, Love.  Let my soul fly free, and

come dance ever ‘neath these bright stars with me.