If Only You Were Here

If you were here, I know you would be excited I went off to college. You would have watched me graduate. You would smile and cheer as I walked across that stage. I can hear you saying, "I'm proud of you, kid." If only you were here.

If you were here, we wouldn't have to miss you on every holiday. You would be at every birthday, every Thanksgiving, and every New Year. Instead every Christmas morning, we put on our slideshow of you as we open our presents. The screen filled with picture after picture of all the memories you created through the years. You look so happy, we all look so happy. I wish we could add more pictures to it now... if only you were here.

If you were here, I think you would like my boyfriend Mikey. I tell him all the time I wish he could have met you. You're a lot alike. You would have got along great. He loves to laugh and pulls many pranks. Just like you did. Sometimes I picture you two laughing and sharing a beer. Two of my favorite guys. It would have warmed my heart. If only you were here.

If you were here, we would have shared a beer on my 21st birthday and many more after that. We would be spending the summer days out on the deck, catching up and reminiscing. We would be spending the nights in the barn playing cards and listening to oldies. I would turn on George Jones and watch you dance with Grandma, I can hear the music now. If only you were here.

If you were here, I would show you all I've learned on the guitar since the day you gave me yours. You would be so proud. I've taught myself, just like you did. I think you would like that. Our love for music is something I'll always cherish. We could have played a song together. If only you were here.

If you were here, you would know me as the woman I've grown to be. So much has changed since you left us seven years ago. You would be so proud of my little brothers too and the young men they are today. You wouldn't have missed us growing up. If only you were here.

If you were here, you would give me advice as I venture through adulthood. You would be there whenever I needed you. If I needed a hug, laugh, or guidance. You would be there. If only you were here.

If you were here, we wouldn't miss you so much.Our family would still be complete. We would be creating so many more memories. If you were here I would tell you how much I love you over and over again. But instead, I say these things to the night sky as the stars shine. Looking up, hoping you're looking down at me. And if you were here, you would say I love you back. You would say all the things I long to hear. If only just only you were here.