Leaf filled trees and chill forest wind
Collect at my back as I visit again.
We played amongst that wood-made-home
Our noses red and with shivering bones.
We laughed, skipped, bounced, rolled
Along forest paths and grassy knolls.
Such kind eyes, such tender hands,
A brilliant mind and love for the land.
So many friends, so much to give;
So little time left to live.

I didn't know you very long,
But your life was like a country song.
I call you my sister, my cousin, my friend,
But we were really just strangers until the end.
Once you were gone I learned so much,
It felt like my heart was cold to the touch
Compared to your warmth, your strength and love.
Admiring you was like wearing a glove.

Did you know we all laughed when we found that puzzle piece?
It was the first time since you left I felt so at ease.
You told us to be strong, told us not to cry,
But I never even got to tell you goodbye.
I truly wanted to go and see you away,
But I couldn't quite muster the words to say.
Then it appeared I could try once again,
But I guess I wasn't ready to accept you as dead.

I thought and I cried for many a day
Thinking of how I could reduce this pain.
I never really knew you, I was so young when it happened,
But you were the first close person I had lost back then.
Maybe God just really loved you and wanted you there,
I bet you two would make a good pair,
But maybe it's you who hasn't let go,
Maybe it's us who are lucky, you know?

You were so young when you were called away,
While all of your family was forced to stay.
You don't have people to cherish you there,
Except for those you knew in prayer.
I hope you know it won't always be that way
Because we will all be together again someday.
We'll find some trees up there in the sky
And run through the autumn woods once I die.

But while I'm here, alive on this earth
I must find a way to be of worth.
I just can't do that while clinging so tightly
And crying myself to sleep nightly.
So I must leave you, though I know you're alone
I hope once I'm up there I can atone,
so please forgive me, but I need to let you go,
But I will always love you, just so you know.