In the Shadows

I stood today in the shadow of the church
As they lowered you into the cold, damp earth.
Jesus was there watching, waiting for you to come;
I saw you take his hand and smile to me.
My only son, my best friend!
Why did you have to choose to leave this world behind?
I cannot ask you, I cannot hold and comfort you
As I once did when you were a small child.
Why could you not have sought me out as you did Jesus?
I would have been the Holy Spirit for you,
Descending from above to wrap you in my warm embrace.
Words of sympathy are no comfort to me now,
My soul, my heart have been torn from me.
I watch as my God leads you away from me,
Away from the shadows that filled your life.
My soul cries out as you depart-
Oh why could you not see the sunshine!
Your father was there for you, is here for you now.
But it is too late for more than good-bye.
I fare thee well on this, your final journey,
And look to hope for the day I will see you again,
To take you in my arms and give you the solace and peace
I could not give you while you lived on this Earth too briefly.
My heart, my soul--my son--
My love will ever walk beside you in Heaven.