Not dead —oh no, but borne beyond the shadows
Into the full clear light;
Forever done with mist and cloud and tempest,
Where all is calm and bright.
Not even sleeping — called to glad awakening
In Heaven’s cloudless day;
Not still and moveless — stepped from earth’s rough places
To walk the King’s highway.
Not silent — just passed out of earthly hearing
To sing Heaven’s sweet new song;
Not lonely — dearly loved and dearly loving
Amid the white-robed throng.
But not forgetful — keeping fond remembrance
Of dear ones left awhile;
And looking gladly to the bright reunion
With hand-clasp and with smile.
Oh no, not dead, but past all fear of dying,
And with all suffering o’er;
Say not that I am dead when Jesus calls me
To live for evermore.
Sent with loving sympathy.