Last Stop

  Dear child…
  My dear, dear child…
  How long have you traveled this arduous path?  I can see you are so very tired.  Come sit by me so we may talk.  
  Don't cry, shh.  I'm here for you.  From now until eternity, I shall always be by your side.
  Put your head on my shoulder; allow me to smooth your hair.  There, much better.  
  Would you like me to take your pain away, little one?  Of course you do, but you have to make that choice.  
  I know it's cold, so very cold.  I promise it will pass once you come with me.  All you have to do is let go.  Let go of the anger, the pain, and anguish.  Allow the flame inside you to cease and all that will be gone forever and ever.  
  Mmm, see?  Feeling better?  Yes, my dearest child.  Let it all go.
  I know the cold hurts, but let it numb you and ease your suffering.  Ah, ah, ah, don't fight it; it will only make it hurt that much more.
  Let me hold you.  There, there, it's okay.  I'm right here.  My poor child, you've suffered for so long.  I understand.  I understand it all.  You deserve to rest.  Sleep.  Sleep for as long as you'd like.
  Yes, that's it.  Now close your eyes and I'll sing you a song:

Here I am, there you are,
So close are we and yet so far.
The further you go, the closer we get,
But I shall wait, so don't you fret.

No need to fear what lies on the other side,
Many I have helped and many who have tried.
In the end, it's all the same,
And soon, you too, shall whisper my name.

  That wasn't so bad now was it?
  See?  I told you.  
  Welcome home, my love, welcome home.