You were supposed to graduate this morning,
In a flurry of proud excitement,
Time to celebrate and play.

You dreamed you’d be an artist,
A wife and mother, living love
But that chance was torn away.

No need to get there early
To save seats for family and friends.
There’s no diploma engraved with your name.

Your friends will walk without you
And move on to other dreams.
That’s as it should be. Things cannot stay the same.

There is no cap and gown for you--
But there was a robe of white.
Some dreams don’t go quite as one supposes.

You graduated early, and with highest honors too.
Your race is run. And God, who you loved so much,
Met you with shooting stars and roses.

He welcomed you with open arms
It’s only we who feel the pain
Of your promotion. We miss you so.

But we know you’ll wait at the podium
When we’ve finally passed our tests.
Forgive us for being so slow.

You were the best teacher we ever had.
You showed us how to love and laugh.
Your gentle strength was wise beyond your years.

Congratulations, Sweetie. We are so proud of you.