FLY AWAY

As I sit in the drizzling rain in total disbelief,

Staring into the sky in whole-hearted pain and grief.

Your face appears in the gray, silver and sun-touched clouds,

Looking down and telling me, "Be happy and rejoice in life somehow."

Your passing came too soon, you had so much more to give,

For those who love you, through our hearts you will forever live.

The days, though bright and sunny as can be,

Will be dimmer and far lonelier for those like me.

Though you are no longer sharing in the world with us,

Your spirit, love of life and joy will forever touch us.

I will always miss you, your love, your endearing smile,

I will feel you in your music, your words, your sighs.

It isn't when we die but how we live, it is said,

For you that means you'll live forever instead.

You wanted us all to fly through your art,

And so you and your fans will never really part.

Every beautiful sunset, rainbow or scene,

Will reflect your spirit, your essence, your being.

I will see you there in nature's elite,

From the tiniest creature to the greatest peak.

I don't know how to say good bye, just how to let go,

Of a man who lived my dreams, who filled my very soul.

I know you are singing for the angles now,

You've finally reached that higher ground.

Though I know you are in a better, more peaceful place,

I can't help crying for missing your magnificent face.

We know that you left us doing what you love best,

It's now up to us to carry on your dreams so you can rest.

No one could say good bye in just the right way,

It seems your own words are only what can convey:

Oh, why is it thus we are here and so soon we are gone,

Oh, why is it thus you were here and too soon you were gone.

In loving memory of John Denver

December 31, 1943 - October 12,

1997 by Jane M. Usero