Leavetaking ____________ I never thought it would be Paradise. I've walked a rugged pathway from the start. No ugliness was hidden from my eyes, Nor was life's pain a stranger to my heart. And yet, the earth has sprung beneath my feet. And summer winds were gentle to my hair, I breathed upon the dusk and found it sweet. I gazed upon dawn and found it fair. I know gray moors were shadow mists lie curled, and sunbright streams and night skies rich with stars. For all its faults, I have loved this world and found it beautiful, despite its scars. Though angels sing of Glories greater still. I leave in sadness, much against my will.