If I had known it would be your last visit
If I had known I wouldn’t see your sweet face again
I would have…
Not made other plans.
If I had known it would be your last phone call
If I had known how quick life can change
I would have…
Not rolled my eyes at your ring.
If I had known it would be my last chance
If I had known you were leaving soon
I would have…
Not been so afraid of the hospital.
If I had known it was your last Christmas
If I had known your time was short
I would have…
Stayed with you longer.
If I had known it was the last night
If I had known it was coming so fast
I would have…
Never left your side.
If I had known…
I've noticed that the older I get, the more I think about the people I've lost in my life. Those who have been so important to me in one way or another but who are no longer here. This is a little bit of several people and what I would have...wish I had...done.
Poetry Friday is hosted by Michelle at Today's Little Ditty
I think that everyone does the best they can at the time with what life throws at them, Robin. Maybe instead of looking back you can use your feelings to pay it forward? Beautiful poem showing those raw feelings we all have sometimes!
ReplyDeleteThis is beautiful and heartbreaking, Robin. I hope the act of writing it was healing somehow.
ReplyDeleteI agree, a very raw poem. I can feel your emotion and pain as I read this. I too hope you find healing in the act of writing such a beautiful piece.
ReplyDeleteYou articulate with spare language and great truth the regrets many of us have when it comes to our friends and loved ones. Thank you for sharing, and encouraging me to value each day!
ReplyDeleteSo poignant. After an extended visit with my faltering mom, this really strikes home.
ReplyDeleteWow! Beautiful! And an important reminder. Today is my college son's last day of a two week visit home, then another six months without him. Your poem reminds me to put aside housework, etc. and just ENJOY him. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteWow, this is heartbreakingly beautiful. Thank you for sharing.
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