When I disappear from here

 The following poem was written to the prompt exit from our local poetry group

When I disappear from here

When I disappear from here,
I'd like to make a dramatic exit.

I bow to you and hope
I've left something behind:

a smile tucked into a corner,
a memory that turns up unexpectedly,

a trail of glitter
that refused to wash away,

a poem that found
a secret door to your heart,
a window to your mind.

Maybe a hug.
A hand I held
when your words stumbled
from your lips.

I hope that when I stood
waving my torch like a madwoman,

you caught a spark
and carried it onward
without even knowing.

And if I nudged a shadow aside,
to help one small star
remember how to shine,

I shall leave
on the wings of the wind.

So thank you
for the lessons and laughter,
the company and harmony,
the kindnesses, large and small.

And after I've dropped my mic,
turn up the music,
laugh too loudly,
pop the corn
and keep the spark moving.