I desire to leave of me

Something so much more

Than just a fleeting memory

For near and dear to keep in store.

 

 Something I would like to leave

 Are words of lilting rhyme.

 Thoughts which I, alone, conceive,

 To last till end of time.

 

I hope that others will enjoy them

And gain much lasting pleasure.

Loving thoughts, as I employ them,

May they be to all a treasure.

 

 May they give to all mankind

 Desires for love and peace.

 Thoughts of joy may they find

 Till life and time shall cease.

 

If I can bring some happiness

To those whose lives are drear,

Uplift their souls in sweet caress,

Give sunlight, joy and cheer,

 

 Then, that would be my legacy

 To give long after death.

 More than just a memory

 To vanish like a breath.

 

By L. B. Strawn

June 16, 1980