The time I was with you was when I knew
That life was good. Felt as it should.
Not always, I suppose. There were those
Long weeks, hard days. But always
When you were part of it, the pieces fit,
And it was right, even within the fight.
So, do not hear me wrong, I cope. The hope
I have is very real, and the joy I feel.
But how do I explain the pain,
Hearing from those outside: The best is yet to come!
Knowing it is not true. Not without you.
I look forward with cheer, I fight the fear.
But feel the piercing truth, the youth
Has fled my eyes. The grim surprise
That I must find my best days left behind.

– s. Clark