Donate Life!
This poem is a bit late as it is now April 21, 2011. But it’s not too late to be an organ donor. Let your family know your wishes. Go to www.DonateLife.net. Sign up. Your life will go on living, even when you’re gone. There is no greater gift.
The Legacy 20×16 inches Donate Life
The Legacy
A dedication from a donor
to his or her own family
and to the recipient.
I loved my life and had great plans
for dreams I would pursue.
I loved to learn and loved to work—
so much for me to do.
But plans and dreams—it always seems—
are subject to delay,
for life can bring surprises
that take us from our way.
I didn’t mean to leave so soon;
so much was left undone.
We always think that later’s there:
it comes with every sun.
I wanted to accomplish much—
perhaps do something great.
And though I have now moved along,
I’ve learned it’s not too late.
My family loved me very much,
and taught me well to share.
And I am able yet to give,
though I am not there.
There is a special part of me
that helps someone to live.
I’ve done something great, you see:
I found a way to give.
So a part of me still sees the sun,
in a different way.
My legacy gives life, you see,
each and every day.
So mourn me not, my family:
my spirit’s still in you.
The lesson that you taught so well
gives work I love to do.
I’m grateful I can help someone:
I’ve left a legacy
so someone else can yet live on
with some help from me.
The work I do now helps to hold
a family together.
Keep the memory of my gift
in your hearts forever.
I recently was at an event where this poem was read…thank you for sharing this. My granddaughter received a liver the day she turned 7 months old and we are so grateful. I’m sure you know for most people it is very difficult to put into words what this means to a family. Thank you again!
Dear Linda,
Thank you so much for your comment. I hope your granddaughter is doing well. Best wishes to her and to your entire family.
Sincerely,
Dan