Do not tell me of how someone has died;
Instead, tell me of the way that they lived.
I don’t want to know why the people cried,
But what made memories of them vivid.
They must have touched the lives of many folks
As they made memories filled with laughter.
Their friendships included ladies and blokes
Pursuing a life worth going after.
Let’s not remember the pain, but kindness
That was spread around due to their presence.
We have gathered, so we may bear witness
Of how a life spent deserves reverence.
Why would we focus on the suffering
When talk of living is more enduring?
John Collings 