What I Want to Say Today

What I Want to Say Today
Yong Wan Choi 10.16.10

On a road I walk not knowing tomorrow
if I were told that today is my last day
what would I say, in my alarm

Standing alone, an empty heart on a lonely island,
I would lay down everything I have held in my hands till now
and give it back, so each thing finds its own place

I would send something heartfelt to friends far away
and before those who follow in my footsteps
I would leave beautiful memories engraved

The cord cut, leaving my mother's body,
a crying baby, never asking why it must stand alone,
came this far with nothing but an obedient heart—
to the neighbors who held my hand, grew my dreams, gave me wings,
and made my life, I am endlessly grateful

I want to leave one word: “I love you”
and I'll ask that it carry laughter on after I'm gone

earnestly longing for tomorrow, one more day to live