What Will We Remember?

What Will We Remember

what matters in the long run

of fading strength and memory

no longer clear or bright

do we know what counts

out of all the years of effort

and forgotten hopes let go-

what in our confusion lasts

perhaps a smile or tender kiss

the sweet sound of applause-

or windblown waves beneath

the cliffs of Pointe du Hoc

reminding us of heroes lost-

buildings designed and built

sermons preached on love

what we’ve written being read

songs relighting darkened hearts

lessons taught to children

actually changing lives-

matters it if loved by many

or one long love, now gone-

a special gift received or given

small kindnesses of others

a letter written to console

flowers when it’s least expected

laughter experienced as grace-

care-giving for the one you love

the letting go when it’s time

what will be remembered

when we’re on the other side?