When I Must Leave You

When I must leave you
for a little while,
Please do not grieve
and shed wild tears
And hug your sorrow
to you through the years,
But start out bravely
with a gallant smile;
And for my sake
and in my name
Live on and do
all things the same
Feed not your lonliness
on empty days
But fill each waking hour
in useful ways
Reach out your hand
in comfort and in cheer
And I in turn will comfort you
and hold you near;
And never, never
Be afraid to die,
For I am waiting
For you in the sky!

By : 

 Helen Steiner Rice,