When I'm Gone

• Miranda McIlwain, Grade 10, Home Schooled - VIC
• Poetry
• 2016

Excellence Award in the 'Top Secret 2016' competition

I have leukaemia, and it's never going away--
I'm weaker and closer to death with each new day.
I feel like a boat sailing...
To the wrong destination;
Meeting the end of my days,
When I've had but 12 years in creation.
I wish I could stay, but Heaven awaits
So I have to say ‘goodbye'; but when I leave,
Please don’t grieve. Yes, just dry your eyes.
For when I’m gone, I’ll be in God’s arms
And away from all sorrow and pain.
I’ll miss you, but I know, I’ll see you again.
For when I’m gone
I want you to smile when you remember me.
My last breath has gone;
They’re gathered round...in loving memory.