But when the sun in all his state / Illumed the eastern skies,
She passed through glory’s morning gate / And walked in Paradise.– Thomas Bailey Aldrich, “A Death Bed”
Comfort for the Bereaved
It pains my heart to think that you might weep
When I have gone to Death. Love, dry your eyes;
Should mothers sob to rock a babe to sleep,
Or flinch from soothing song to calm its cries?
Death’s but eternal slumber, welcome rest
From life’s rough passions, sharp joys, and black fears.
It is a gift, and so I think it best
To welcome it with calm, and not with tears.
My life has been a star—brief, clear, and bright—
And now comes Sun to singe my dawn-dimmed rays.
I have burned clear throughout my given night,
And I am well content to face my days
Of silent, unseen slumber. Do not sigh—
Recall, my love, that even stars must die.
E-Mail Feedback
Like this piece? Hate it? Got a question or comment? Let it all out via the e-mail feedback form below.
