I’m not afraid to die …

… John Wooden on death … and life …

Lindsey Yourman at Geripal alerts us to a video of John Wooden discussing death and life (entire Rick Reilly interview here) … and reciting the poem below. Another tribute (with lots of links) to Wooden here.

“Once I was afraid of dying, Not Anymore”

by Swen Nater (former Bruin player)

(written for John Wooden)

Once I was afraid of dying.
Terrified of ever-lying.
Petrified of leaving family, home and friends.
Thoughts of absence from my dear ones,
Drew a melancholy tear once.
And a lonely, dreadful fear of when life ends.
But those days are long behind me;
Fear of leaving does not bind me.
And departure does not host a single care.
Peace does comfort as I ponder,
A reunion in the Yonder,
With my dearest who is waiting for me there.