IF I KNEW
If I knew it would be the last time
that I'd see you fall asleep,
I would tuck you in more tightly
and pray the Lord, your soul to keep.
If I knew it would be the last time
that I see you walk out the door,
I would give you a hug and kiss
and call you back for one more.
If I knew it would be the last time
I'd hear your voice lifted up in praise,
I would video tape each action and word,
so I could play them back day after day.
If I knew it would be the last time,
I could spare an extra minute
to stop and say 'I love you, '
instead of assuming you would know I do.
If I knew it would be the last time
I would be there to share your day,
Well I'm sure you'll have so many more,
so I can let just this one slip away.
For surely there's always tomorrow
to make up for an oversight,
And we always get a second chance
to make everything just right.
There will always be another day
to say 'I love you, '
And certainly there's another chance
to say our 'Anything I can do? '
But just in case I might be wrong,
and today is all I get,
I'd like to say how much I love you
and I hope we never forget.
Tomorrow is not promised to anyone,
young or old alike,
And today may be the last chance
you get to hold your loved one tight.
So if you're waiting for tomorrow,
why not do it today?
For if tomorrow never comes,
you'll surely regret the day,
That you didn't take that extra time
for a smile, a hug, or a kiss
And you were too busy to grant someone,
what turned out to be their one last wish.
So hold your loved ones close today,
and whisper in their ear,
Tell them how much you love them
and that you'll always hold them dear
Take time to say 'I'm sorry, ' 'Thank you, '
'Please forgive me, ' or 'It's okay.'
And if tomorrow never comes,
you'll have no regrets about today.
The Story Behind the Poem
Here's the Scoop!
"If I Knew" was written by Dawn Huddleston during the deeply emotional time of her father, J.C. Acree's, passing. The heartfelt poem, reflection on love, loss, and cherished memories, struck a universal chord, quickly going viral. While its powerful message inspired countless readers, many others falsely claimed authorship. However, the poem is officially copyrighted with the U.S. Copyright Office, preserving Dawn's rightful ownership and legacy as its creator. This beautiful piece continues to touch hearts worldwide, cementing its place as a timeless tribute to love and loss. You will often hear this poem read at funerals, and celebrations of life. If you would like to use this poem please email us at Dawn.Huddleston7@gmail.com