Breakfast Table

Dear Baby,

Now I want to talk to you a bit about a subject that is kind of sad. Nature works in such a way that it is likely that I will die before you do. I know this is very sad to think about, because just the thought of losing either of my parents causes both an emotional reaction (I get very teary-eyed) and a physical reaction (my stomach hurts) in me. I believe the strength of this reaction is why I need to talk to you about it. First, you need to know that my belief structure is such that I am confident that I will be in Heaven and I will be there with many people whom I have loved and lost. Second, I want you to know that if you feel called to action as a result of my passing, let that action be to be your true self. You see, I believe there are many ways to leave a legacy. Some very lucky individuals find a way to leave a legacy through their work. For the most part, though, for parents, I believe our greatest legacy is our children. I don’t mean what you decide to do for a living, or how much money you make. I believe my legacy will be in how you treat others, the way you prioritize and raise your family and the respect you show to those you are able to help.

There is a song about death and dying that your dad and I love because while it is sad, it is very hopeful. I’ve pasted the lyrics here.

Breakfast Table
by Chris Rice

Was it a million miles to Heaven?
Too far to hear my lonely song
Or is it just my imagination I hear you humming along
I only hold you in my dreams now
I wake up with cold and empty arms
Lord, help me get through this long night without you
And soon as the morning comes
Soon as the morning comes

Save me a seat at the breakfast table
Save me a dance around the Milky Way
And save me a thousand years to whisper in your ears
All I’ve wanted to say
Save me a smile and an angel’s feather
Save me a walk down the streets of gold
And baby, we’ll change our minds just like old times
And maybe we’ll just fly away
Or maybe we’ll stay

Lucky dog, you’re in Heaven before me
You were my taste of Heaven here
Remember we loved to talk about it, we couldn’t wait to get there
So you go on and find your way around now
But remember I’m here missing you
Do me a favor and say hey to Jesus
And tell him I’m missing him, too
Tell him I’m missing him, too

Then save me a seat at the breakfast table
Save me a dance around the Milky Way
And save me a thousand years to whisper in your ears
All I’ve wanted to say
Save me a smile and an angel’s feather
Save me a walk down the streets of gold
And baby, we’ll change our minds just like old times
And maybe we’ll just fly away
Or maybe we’ll stay

Love,
Mama

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