Letting Go

As the world begins to dim
I realize I may never see her again
It breaks my heart to loosen my grasp
But without free hands I cannot finish my work.

The pain sears deep as my hands
Receive the blows
I hear the cries from distant lands
Why can't I let go?

So now I continue my work
Licking the gashes on my hands
But the pain has moved to my heart
Because I know I'll have to let go again.

Poem originally composed on Tuesday, April 6, 1993 after visiting with an old friend for the last time.