He is gone!
He is no more!
Let the bells ring out
that this life has passed.
Then let them be silent
in contemplation of it.
Let them weep quietly
for the goodness he had brought;
let them smile sweetly
for the honor of having shared
this earth with him.
Let them see
albeit painful to witness
that he chose his own way;
that it was he who ended his time.
This was no stranger
unfeeling to his demise
but his own caring hand
that felt it time to go.
Let the bells ring forth
all his sadness and remorse
and then be still again
as he is still now.
We know not the depth
in intimacy his pain
those who cannot see an end
should not for choosing be condemned.
It is only left for us
the living and unsure
to carry always the goodness
of they that are no more.


- Mary Dally-Muenzmaier, 1995