Swan Songs

There is a touching, ancient fable

Of mute swans who are unable
To make a sound throughout their lives;
Then, at last, as death arrives -
A melody; a haunting cry;
A farewell song; a final sigh.

What a glorious way to die;
To enter the sweet by and by -
Instead of struggling, holding on
They fill their last moments with song;
Giving their all, their very best
Before they finally find rest.

Although this tale is hardly true
A lesson's here for me and you:
Death isn't something we need fear,
But should embrace when it draws near -
Let's pray that when our time has come
We'll sing our swan songs to God's Son.

Jan Bagwell

God Bless