I said goodbye just yesterday, though days ago you died.
I promised you that I'd be strong, though many tears I've cried.
To take up 'paperwork' is like a cross one has to bear.
And others, in their grief, design to call you laissez-faire.
I want to crumble, but the years have seen me build on ground that's solid; as my heart is true;  and I am duty-bound.
I'm also bound by love and trust – indelible and strong.
I will not fail you, even if my critics call it wrong.
I'll take a breath, I will not crack, I'll see my duty’s end.
And when the ink has dried I'll tell my heart it's time to mend.