Should You Go First
 

Should you go first and I remain
To walk the road alone,
I'll live in memory's garden, dear,
With happy days we've known.

In Spring I'll watch for roses red
When fades the lilac blue,
In early Fall when brown leaves call
I'll catch a glimpse of you.

Should you go first and I remain
For battles to be fought,
Each thing you've touched along the way
Will be a hallowed spot.

I'll hear your voice, I'll see your smile,
Though blindly I may grope,
The memory of your helping hand
Will buoy me on with hope.

Should you go first and I remain
To finish with the scroll
No length'ning shadows shall creep in
To make this life seem droll.

We've known so much of happiness,
We've had our cup of joy
And memory is one gift of God
That death cannot destroy.

Should you go first and I remain
One thing I'd have you do;
Walk slowly down that long, lone path,
For soon I'll follow you.

I'll want to know each step you take
That I may walk the same.
For someday, down that lonely road,
You'll hear me call your name.

                 --Albert Rosell

     (From Poems That Touch the Heart)