TAKING MY LEAVE
by  Walter A Adams

Finish up the tale you’re telling
For I’m halfway down the shore
Every story has an ending
Then it’s time to tell no more

I can see them waiting for me
Over on the other side
Finish up the tale you’re telling
And kindly let me by.

Give me what gifts you’re giving
For my foot is in the boat
The waters clear and calming
And I long to take the oars

There are few things you can give me
That I won’t leave behind
So give me the gifts you’re giving
And I will give you mine.

Find a place deep in your memory
Where you can keep my name
For I’m almost ‘cross the river
And I won’t be back again

One look back from that distant shore
And one last joyous wave
For I know that all the tears I have cried
The river will carry away