The Last Request

In loving memory of Master Sensei Joseph R. Richardson

Please don't say that I gave up, just say that I gave in; don't say I lost the battle, for it was God's war to lose or win; please don't say how good I was, but that I did my best; just say I tried to do what's right, to give the most I could, not less; please don't give me wings or halos, that's for God to do; I want no more hat I deserve, no extras, just my due; please don't give flowers, or talk in real hushed tones; don't be concerned about me now, I'm well with God,I've made it home; don't talk about what could have been, it's over and it's done, just see to all my family's needs, especially the little ones; when you draw a picture of me, don't draw me a saint ;I've done some good, I've done some wrong, so use all your paint; not just the bright and light tines, use some grey and dark; in fact, don't put me on canvas, paint me in your heart; don't just remember the good times, but remember all the bad; for life is full of many things, some happy and some sad, but if you must do something then I have one request: forgive me  for the wrongs I've done, and with the love that's left, Thank God for my soul's resting, thank God for all who loved me, praise God who loved me best.