It is the time the I must start again,
Remake myself with loss and love and light.
I know not who I'll be, just what I've been.

When I shed this life, this face, this skin,
I'll wake as from a long and troubled night –
It is the time the I must start again

Though I may face the mirror with chagrin
Discover – still not ginger – future bright?
I know not who I'll be, just what I've been.

I'll sail the stars, my soul's only captain,
Though my hearts quail with most unwonted fright.
It is the time the I must start again,

And knowing that, and letting go, I'll grin,
And readjust to teeth a shade less white.
I know not who I'll be, just what I've been.

I fear death less than love; despair's a sin
And hope, though fleeting, never will be trite.
It is the time the I must start again
I know not who I'll be, just what I've been.