The hinged door has fallen open
inviting me to step outside -
Death, be not so hurried
to grasp my wrinkled hand.
You've come for me too early
I must make a few demands.

I've not yet said farewell
to those I've loved and lost,
nor to those who once loved me -
whose hearts suffered at great cost.
One more time must I take in
the fragrance of magnolia,
feel the wind muss my hair,
and say a final prayer.

Do not pity the gasp of my last breath.
Life was a sampling, a test,
a temporary state of existence
until Death reached with persistence.
I walk slowly to my grave
not taking his cold hand.
Death does not afford me help.

No choir voices do I hear sing,
no celebration ending my life.
Freedom is awaiting me,
that only Death can bring.
Shed no tears of sadness,
tis for you I mourn and weep.
You must live in this evil world
and I...  I shall merely be asleep.