08/12/2024
This poem was chosen by a family for me to read at a recent funeral. I’d not come across it before and think it’s a lovely farewell, especially for those, like me, who are fond of a train journey for reflection…
Last Journey
by Timothy Coote
There is a train at the station
With a seat reserved just for me
I’m excited about its destination
As I’ve heard it sets you free.
The trials and tribulations
The pain and stress we breathe
Don’t exist where I am going
Only happiness, I believe.
I hope that you will be there
To wish me on my way
It’s not a journey you can join in
It’s not your time today.
There’ll be many destinations
Some are happy, some are sad
Each one a brief reminder
Of the great times that we’ve had.
Many friends I know are waiting
Who took an earlier train
To greet and reassure me
That nothing has really changed.
We’ll take the time together
To catch up on the past
To build a new beginning
One that will always last.
One day you’ll take your journey
On the train just like me
And I promise that I’ll be there
At the station and you will see:
That life is just a journey
Enriched by those you meet
No-one can take that from you
It’s always yours to keep.
But now as no seat is vacant
You will have to muddle through
Make sure you fulfil your ambitions
As you know I’ll be watching you.
And if there’s an occasion
To mention who you knew
Speak kindly of that person
As one day it will be you.
Now I can’t except this ending
And as it’s time for me to leave
Please make haste to the reception
To enjoy my drinks, they’re free!
