Better Things

Shall I go now?

Shall I take His hand?

Shall I leave this land?

Of dust upon my brow

I have fought the fight

I have run the race well

I have heard the bell

Of His mighty might

Shall I not partake?

Shall I linger more?

Shall I stay ashore?

Of rest I must not forsake

I have traveled my path

I have left nothing undone

I have now only begun

Of better things I grasp

Shall I stay for awhile?

Shall I pray for evermore?

Shall I not want to nevermore?

Of you I left a smile

I'm tired but not alone

I'm weary but not shaken

I'm ready yet to be taken

It is time, my seed is sown

Did I make you laugh until you cried?

Did I make you smile on cheerless days?

Did I show you life in many ways?

Then--------------- I have not died

In your heart I reside

In memories of laughter and cheer

Do not fear

It is but for a while we part now

I will be there always and in all ways

From now to end of days

Keep laughing, smiling and surely thou---

When you look upon the beauty of the rainbow

Will know I'm there above in that unspeakable heavenly glow---

Dedicated to the family of Mike Porterfield from an old classmate many years ago--- By Jeff Riley 9/22/2011