Empty Shell

I have come to see the empty shell
Abandoned either for Heaven or Hell
Or some existence beyond our sight
And beyond our perilous fancies flight.

The face is clearly yours my friend
I know every crease from end to end;
But it lacks that certain animated tone
That uniquely separates life from stone.

I see the hint of a passing smile
Pasted on with makeup, thread and wire;
Could it be that death can bring joy
Or is this well-place wax a ploy?

I have so much to tell you now
If only you can hear somehow;
I suppose you are still here, still near
That even death will not interfere.

So hear me out while I have the chance
You have moved on to the eternal dance
Crossed through the gate from life to death
While we journey on....you will rest.

Tho', that is not my thought of death
I do not think that you will rest;
Instead I sense your journey anew
Into places this earth just cannot view

You will see dimensions that redefine glory
When I see you there, you will tell a story
Of creatures, stars, and unearthly places
Not glimpsed by our eyes or felt by our senses...

You see, death will never be the end we dread
You leave us here -- yes we say "You are dead"
But you live now in other places of glory
Death Be Not Proud - for life is your story.

So, I will miss you but, you do not care
One more time I reach out to brush your hair;
Then close the casket and say goodbye
If we must be born, then we also must die.