Back when I was a child, before life removed all the innocence
My father would lift me high and dance with my mother and me and then
Spin me around ‘til I fell asleep
Then up the stairs he would carry me
And I knew for sure I was loved

If I could get another chance, another walk, another dance with him
I’d play a song that would never, ever end
How I’d love, love, love
To dance with my father again

When I and my mother would disagree
To get my way, I would run from her to him
He’d make me laugh just to comfort me
Then finally make me do just what my mama said
Later that night when I was asleep
He left a dollar under my sheet
Never dreamed that he would be gone from me

If I could steal one final glance, one final step, one final dance with him
I’d play a song that would never, ever end
‘Cause I’d love, love, love
To dance with my father again

Sometimes I’d listen outside her door
And I’d hear how my mother cried for him
I pray for her even more than me
I pray for her even more than me

I know I’m praying for much too much
But could you send back the only man she loved
I know you don’t do it usually
But dear Lord she’s dying
To dance with my father again

Every night I fall asleep and this is all I ever dream

(Lyrics to Luther Vandross Award Winning Song)

***

God looked around his Garden
and found an empty place.
He then looked down upon his earth
and saw your loving face.

He put his arms around you
and lifted you to rest.
His Garden must be beautiful,
he always takes the best.

He knew that you were suffering,
he knew you were in pain.
And knew that you would never
get well on earth again.

He saw your path was difficult,
he closed your tired eyes,
He whispered to you "Peace be Thine"
and gave you wings to fly.

When we saw you sleeping
so calm and free of pain,
We would not wish you back to earth
to suffer once again.

You've left us precious memories,
your love will be our guide,
You live on through your children,
you're always by our side.

It broke our hearts to lose you,
but you did not go alone.
For part of us went with you
on the day God called you home.

~Unknown Author

***

As I think about all