I was sitting by her bedside
during those last few days of breath
she said "you try to be a good boy"
i said "i'll try and i'll do my best"
she said "be sure and take real good care of your mom don't worry about me i know where i'm going after i'm gone"

i said "girl you know what it is that i believe and i'm not sure i'll get to see you again.
i'm headed to hell anyway if what they say is true
but maybe they'll give me a pass and i can come and visit you for a day or two"

She laughed
touched my hand
said "you know you'll always be my favorite boy
i've always thought you were a very talented man
you'll always be my pride and my joy
and i've been down on my knees every night praying
to god that he will keep you safe."
i said "i must be pretty screwed then honey
cause aint nobody out there that's gonna take your place."

I sat and played her a song or two
kissed her on the forehead after we were through
we both knew that was the last time we'd butt heads
but we left no words lingering between us unsaid.

Sometimes i get to see her in my dreams
she professes her love
i thank her for everything she did for me
and do my best to make sure she gets a hug

for one brief moment i am allowed to believe that she's alive and real
but i remember she's not
her face contorts
she vanishes
and i wake up in my own tears

I don't think i'll get to see that woman again
no when we die i think that's the end
but it makes those moments
so precious to my heart
and helps me to better appreciate
my family and my friends.