Sacred Poems and Anthems
Contents Updated: Friday, July 14, 2000
Do not stand at my grave and weep
This poem was publicised by reporter John Ezard in the London Guardian a few years ago when it was found on the body of a dead soldier from Portsmouth serving in Northern Ireland. It was described as anonymous but suspected to be of native American origin. In the book Earth Prayers noted below, it is attributed to Joyce Fossen. If anyone knows anything about the poet or the poem let us know. Nothing could better express the sentiments of Goddess people at death.
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you wake in the morning hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circling flight.
I am the soft starlight at night.
Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there. I do not sleep.
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