August 11-A, 2022

I have walked through American wonderlands
with a camera. 
I can't think of a better epitaph.
And, since I'm not going to have a tombstone,
or be buried, 
but drift on the wind
like the spirit
blowing where it will,
you can do me the favor
of carrying my epitaph with you
in my memory
as you walk through your own wonderlands
wherever they may be.

Who we are in the memories 
of those who live after us
is who we are.

We all need to be living
to be remembered well.

I prefer kindness, gentleness, compassion,
sincerity, integrity, simplicity,
generosity, respect and honor
for all living things
to money, power and success
in pushing my way to what I think
is worth having.

I wonder what is worth being.

I aspire to a noble heart
and a tender spirit
and a quiet presence
on my way through this place,
and have enjoyed good company
and the natural beauty
of the land and its oceans.

What a life!
I am glad to have lived it,
and may it continue as long 
as it needs to through 
all that I have yet to experience!

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