As I looked into his eyes memories flooded into my head.

I cried as I thought what if this was the last memory.

I squeezed his frail weak hand, and he did back.

It was time for bed, I was told I'd see him in morning.

They were just trying to help relax and calm me. 

I gave him  a kiss on the cheek and told him I loved him.

Not thinking it was the last time.

I was woken with my families sadness.

I thought of all the things I should have done.

I should have spent more time with him.

But there was nothing I could change, he was gone.

I prayed, cried, and prayed some more.

Every hour that passed I missed him even more.

I tried to bring joy to our deep sadness, but I couldn't.

I thought I needed to be strong, but I was only eight.

My dream, My wish, My desire, My hope, My aspiration.

That, sadly, will never transpire in my life on Earth.

I wish I could steal my grandpa from Heaven.

Even just for a minute.

Rest In Peace Grandpa

Cornelius Van Doren

1905-2007