If Only I Knew: Poem by Arooba Ali

When death gently knocks at my door,
Its presence feels heavy, yet silent.
It asks about my final wish—
But how do I choose a single farewell
In a lifetime of unsaid goodbyes?
Should I beg for one last chance
To see the person I loved most,
To say the words I was always afraid to say?
Or should I ask death to free me
From every regret?
Should I say I want to wear the dress
I always longed to wear,
So I can die peacefully, without regret?
Or should I ask to live my childhood once more,
Just to feel those happy moments again?
Or should I simply close my eyes,
And whisper, “I am ready”?
What should I say?