NO PLANS
"Fifteen cents" he asked of me
And I replied "Of course"
He also bought a poster
Of when I had a horse;
One by one I sold them
At my garage sale today
I watched strangers smiling
But I could hear you say:
"Don't you dare sell my tools
Give them to my friends
And don't sell my tractor
I promised that to Ben;
Keep all my coin collection, dear
Fot the boys when they're old
And save that old Army coat
To wear when you get cold. "
"Two dollars for your baseball?"
He broke my train of thought
"Sure" I said and burst in tears
I recalled when we'd bought
That baseball and another bat
So he could teach the boys
The game he loved so very much
That brought us so much joy.
I sold his childhood train sets
I sold his old eight tracks
I even sold his guitar
He wouldn't be needing that;
'Cuz up in Heaven, I believe
God sees to all of that
And so I sold his guitar pick
I know he won't be back.
The garage is now all tidy
And so I cleaned the floor
I looked all around the place
And then I looked some more;
I turned all the lights off
I said: "So long, my luv"
And asked him to wait for me
From somewhere's up above.
It began to rain & storm
As I drove off in his truck
Army coat and around my neck
His dogtags for good luck;
The radio played 'Yard Sale"
And I just smiled and drove
I'd drive 'til I was out of gas
Then I turned my head and wove.
No plans......
About Me
- BoardWalk Angel
- Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- "On a windswept hill by a billowing sea, my destiny sits and waits for me".....R Brout
Sunday, September 23, 2007
JUST ACROSS THE CAUSEWAY
JUST ACROSS THE CAUSEWAY
He rocks outside in the morning
And feeds the hummingbirds
He waters all the flowers
Thinks of brand new words
To describe his life now
Because with each passing day
He wishes he was with her
Just across the Causeway.
Just across the Causeway
In another, seaside place
He can still smell her perfume
And see her smiling face
'Twas there he left her in the Fall
To fight her way thru fog
To live and die all alone
With just her little dog.
Life goes on and he's older now
Almost aged ninety-two
He sits and listens to the wind
And sometimes plays the blues
Or he'll hum her favourite tune
"Ol Rivers" she would say
He misses playing it for her
Just across the Causeway.
"Down at the end, Mom wrote:
"Son, ya' knowed, Ol' Rivers died"......
Somehow, somewhere, someday
Just across the Causeway.
He rocks outside in the morning
And feeds the hummingbirds
He waters all the flowers
Thinks of brand new words
To describe his life now
Because with each passing day
He wishes he was with her
Just across the Causeway.
Just across the Causeway
In another, seaside place
He can still smell her perfume
And see her smiling face
'Twas there he left her in the Fall
To fight her way thru fog
To live and die all alone
With just her little dog.
Life goes on and he's older now
Almost aged ninety-two
He sits and listens to the wind
And sometimes plays the blues
Or he'll hum her favourite tune
"Ol Rivers" she would say
He misses playing it for her
Just across the Causeway.
"Down at the end, Mom wrote:
"Son, ya' knowed, Ol' Rivers died"......
Somehow, somewhere, someday
Just across the Causeway.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
THE LONE SEAGULL
THE LONE SEAGULL
I watched a group of seagulls in the fog and dusk tonight and thought about their lifestyle. At first, I counted 10 birds of different colors and sizes, all perched percariously on huge rocks out in the misty sea.
Each had its own rock next to one another but the biggest seagull of all was on rock number one. The rest all sat rigidly behind him or her.
I sat with my dog on a bench, looking at them through the thick fog. Off in the distance, I heard the honking of cars from a newly wedded couple in town. Nearby, a bat could be heard as it slammed a baseball and another run was scored by one of the two teams playing tonight.
Suddenly, without warning, seagull number 10 decided to spread its wings and fly straight through the fog, headed out to sea. I watched it until it was completely gone from my view. I wondered why and where it went; it never returned in the next 15 minutes we stayed seated.
Meanwhile, the remaining nine seagulls stayed put, staring straight ahead, waiting; for what, I do not know. Maybe they sleep sitting still; maybe they were waiting to catch some fish; maybe they were waiting for the lone seagull to fly back to them.
I compared myself to the departing seagull and realized that without risk, nothing ever changes. Without taking chances, everything just stays the same.
That seagull left for parts unknown; he had an adventure while the complacent and silent ones stayed behind to avoid the smell of failure or defeat.
I want to be like the lone seagull and be creative, risky, challenged and energized. There are followers and there are leaders; that lone seagull reminded me to be unafraid.
He unclipped my own wings..........the world is an adventure to be found, to be tasted and tested; to be true to oneself.
Thank you, Mr. Seagull!
I watched a group of seagulls in the fog and dusk tonight and thought about their lifestyle. At first, I counted 10 birds of different colors and sizes, all perched percariously on huge rocks out in the misty sea.
Each had its own rock next to one another but the biggest seagull of all was on rock number one. The rest all sat rigidly behind him or her.
I sat with my dog on a bench, looking at them through the thick fog. Off in the distance, I heard the honking of cars from a newly wedded couple in town. Nearby, a bat could be heard as it slammed a baseball and another run was scored by one of the two teams playing tonight.
Suddenly, without warning, seagull number 10 decided to spread its wings and fly straight through the fog, headed out to sea. I watched it until it was completely gone from my view. I wondered why and where it went; it never returned in the next 15 minutes we stayed seated.
Meanwhile, the remaining nine seagulls stayed put, staring straight ahead, waiting; for what, I do not know. Maybe they sleep sitting still; maybe they were waiting to catch some fish; maybe they were waiting for the lone seagull to fly back to them.
I compared myself to the departing seagull and realized that without risk, nothing ever changes. Without taking chances, everything just stays the same.
That seagull left for parts unknown; he had an adventure while the complacent and silent ones stayed behind to avoid the smell of failure or defeat.
I want to be like the lone seagull and be creative, risky, challenged and energized. There are followers and there are leaders; that lone seagull reminded me to be unafraid.
He unclipped my own wings..........the world is an adventure to be found, to be tasted and tested; to be true to oneself.
Thank you, Mr. Seagull!
Thursday, September 20, 2007
JUST WALKING IN THE RAIN
JUST WALKING IN THE RAIN
The cars whiz by in a flash and the raindrops hit the skin. Listening to the sound of the foghorn and the sound of silence, can be deafening.
The sun has set and the day is almost over. Ducks swim in the sea and the warmth of todays sun still settles over the Island.
The world has moved and the hours have passed and life goes on. Time stands still for no-one. Each day is an addition but yet a subtraction from the whole sum of our time here on earth.
One senses their own immortality and feels a lump in their throat for what cannot be; what cannot happen and what cannot be shared. Ones tears are tears of discontent, of apprehension and overwhelming sadness.
Love denies; love haunts; love hurts. Just walking in the rain........
The cars whiz by in a flash and the raindrops hit the skin. Listening to the sound of the foghorn and the sound of silence, can be deafening.
The sun has set and the day is almost over. Ducks swim in the sea and the warmth of todays sun still settles over the Island.
The world has moved and the hours have passed and life goes on. Time stands still for no-one. Each day is an addition but yet a subtraction from the whole sum of our time here on earth.
One senses their own immortality and feels a lump in their throat for what cannot be; what cannot happen and what cannot be shared. Ones tears are tears of discontent, of apprehension and overwhelming sadness.
Love denies; love haunts; love hurts. Just walking in the rain........
Sunday, September 16, 2007
"FORGET ME NOT"
"FORGET ME NOT"
Winters breath's upon us
Jack Frost knocks at my door
And Santa Claus is coming
To visit us once more;
The leaves have all fallen
Presents have been bought
All I ask for Christmas
Is "Forget Me Not."
The Angel smiles down at me
As if to say "he won't"
And when I kneel to say my prayers
I will pray he don't;
The sleet and ice rock me to sleep
12 o'clock on the dot
And all I want for Christmas
Is "Forget Me Not."
When he unwraps his presents
And sips his cup of cheer
Will he think about me?
Will he shed a tear?;
Jesus has His birthday
I didn't ask for a lot
Just a homemade Christmas card
To say "Forget Me Not."
Winters breath's upon us
Jack Frost knocks at my door
And Santa Claus is coming
To visit us once more;
The leaves have all fallen
Presents have been bought
All I ask for Christmas
Is "Forget Me Not."
The Angel smiles down at me
As if to say "he won't"
And when I kneel to say my prayers
I will pray he don't;
The sleet and ice rock me to sleep
12 o'clock on the dot
And all I want for Christmas
Is "Forget Me Not."
When he unwraps his presents
And sips his cup of cheer
Will he think about me?
Will he shed a tear?;
Jesus has His birthday
I didn't ask for a lot
Just a homemade Christmas card
To say "Forget Me Not."
Friday, September 14, 2007
HE KEPT ALL HIS TOYS BUT ME
HE KEPT ALL HIS TOYS BUT ME
Santa Claus brought the power saw
But he bought himself the rest
A John Deere tractor
Top of the line, the best;
He bought a new rider
To cut the grass, you see
But saved the old push kind
He kept all his toys but me.
He bought the latest tools they make
And built a new garage
Just to put them in
Alongside all his cars;
One day a van delivered
A dog house with a key
Yeah, he even bought a dog
He kept all his toys but me.
And when they began to rust
He just bought some more
Bigger and better ones
From a ritzy, hardware store;
And when the dog was older
And sometimes got a flea
He made it all better
He kept all his toys but me.
Now he's old and all alone
The dog has passed away
He cannot use the tools
Because every other day.....
He is on dialysis
And can no longer see
I wonder if he regrets
He kept all his toys but me?
Santa Claus brought the power saw
But he bought himself the rest
A John Deere tractor
Top of the line, the best;
He bought a new rider
To cut the grass, you see
But saved the old push kind
He kept all his toys but me.
He bought the latest tools they make
And built a new garage
Just to put them in
Alongside all his cars;
One day a van delivered
A dog house with a key
Yeah, he even bought a dog
He kept all his toys but me.
And when they began to rust
He just bought some more
Bigger and better ones
From a ritzy, hardware store;
And when the dog was older
And sometimes got a flea
He made it all better
He kept all his toys but me.
Now he's old and all alone
The dog has passed away
He cannot use the tools
Because every other day.....
He is on dialysis
And can no longer see
I wonder if he regrets
He kept all his toys but me?
Thursday, September 13, 2007
LUCKY
LUCKY
The night was young and he was just an old singer in a country music band. They had warmed up and he was replacing a string on his guitar when he looked across the bar. He couldn't believe his eyes!
It took him back to yesterday when they first met in a bar in Clancy. He was going to school to learn how to be a chef and found a gig with a local band which helped pay the rent. The bar was called "Get Lucky Saloon" and they used to laugh about meeting there. They got lucky, all right!
She told him her name was Maureen but friends just called her Mauri. They danced to a juke-box while the old black man swept up the floor of all the litter and wasted paper napkins with phone numbers on them. She smelled like fresh ivory soap and looked like she was scared to death of a musician.
But he was the one scared shitless! She had class and he wasn't used to much of that where he came from in Arizona. He bought her a beer but she never touched it; he lit his cigarette and offered her a smoke but she politely declined. And when they sat together at an all-night diner, she asked him to say grace with her before they ate their burgers and shakes.
And there were to be no good-night kisses for awhile; she held up her hand and he dutifully kissed the warm top of it. She'd smile and rush inside like a schoolgirl; which she was. Just 18 and inside her first bar; he felt like the luckiest guy in town.
Years later, she'd tell him how she used to lay awake for hours after seeing him, wondering what his mouth would feel like on hers; his tongue in her mouth; his hands around her waist. He was doing the exact same thing in his own rented room.
Now, the sight of her on a tall barstool, took his breath away. He stood behind a wall so she couldn't see him; he wanted to be sure it was Mauri.
Then he saw it; she still wore his watch! It was one-of-a-kind given to him by his mother many years before he even left home. Mauri had loved it and he wanted her to have something of himself. That was before he hurt her; before he broke her heart into; before he turned her into what he was looking at tonight; a scarlett woman.
His mind flashed back to 1982 when she had to study for her final exams. They had been living together just a year and she was in school to be a Legal Assistant. Life was good and he had secured a great job at a local four star restaurant and was playing guitar on the side, every chance he could. The money was good!
He was playing and singing one night, having a bit too much to drink during their break when he felt his hormones recharging while watching a girl shake her rear on the dance floor. Mauri would not be dropping in tonight as she was home studying. When the stranger wiggled her way onto his lap during their second break, he was flattered and embarressed at the same time. She was after one thing as her hand groped him on the floor. He held her tighter so folks wouldn't see his excitement. She just threw her blond head back and laughed; he loved her laugh!
His buddies told him later, how they'd tried to lie for him but Mauri was too smart to fall for it. When she dropped in after the dance had ended and found him missing from the poker game inside, she went looking for him. And she didn't have far to look.
The only cars left out back belonged to the band; his van was rocking when she came knocking. Only she didn't bother to knock, she walked right in and when she did, the van's interior lit up like a stick of dynomite! You could have heard a condom drop!
He was naked and so was the girl; he never did know her name. Mauri had a look in her eyes like a deer caught in a pair of bright headlights. The girl yelled "What the f...?" before he slammed his hand over her mouth. And just like that, Mauri was gone.
And she stayed gone. He tried his best to reach her at her friends, at her school, at her parents home. She disappeared with just her car and her purse; he had never heard from or of her again; not until tonight. He had moved far away but still had never gotton over the pain. He studied her tonight......
Twenty years older now, she probably would not recognize him anyway but just in case, he borrowed some dark shades and found an old cowboy hat. The band had to go on; it was well after 10 o'clock and the drunken crowd was ready to boogey. He could hardly play and he damned well wasn't going to sing.
Ironically, the band played "Together Again" and he felt the tears start to come; no, he musn't let himself. She was still so strikingly beautiful! But she had changed; not shy at all anymore, she asked men to dance before they even had a chance to invite her. She danced provocatively and enticingly, her body not afraid to strut its stuff. Her pink velvet jeans were much too tight; her satin V-necked top was too low- cut and her purple hued hair was too young for her to carry off.
It was a very long night but he got through it; he kept his distance from her side of the bar and yet his eyes never left her face. He saw a lonely, chilling, vacant stare in her eyes as she held her cigarette out to be lit. The many mixed drinks she drank were all paid for by guys hoping to take her home; or take her anywhere.
Then she made her move. Walking straight to the lead singer, she whispered something in his ear and he laughed. Introducing herself as "Lucky", she asked him to slow dance with her now that the band had finished for the night. Before he could intervene, the singer and her were on the dance floor but it was more like he was holding her up. Her slim, tanned arms were wrapped around his thick neck; they kissed. She wasn't shy anymore as her leg wrapped around one of his and his hands slid down her velvet backside.
He watched as they left together; her fur coat swallowing her body and her high heeled boots clicking on the bare wooden floor. He went to the bar and ordered a hot coffee; he'd quit drinking years ago when he was told it was either that or death. Alcoholism was destroying him but living without her respect and love was what was really killing him.
The singer was inside before an hour had passed and they stood together in the men's room at the urinal's. "Man; I was just about raped in the parking lot!" he laughed. "Some chick named Lucky who said she screwed musicians as that's all we are any good for. Bitch! Makes no sense at all; but it was fine by me! Mighty fine!!"
After he got in his cold car and was waiting for the motor to warm up, he cried. He cried for her and for him and for the stupid, sordid mistake that had cost him so much; almost his life. Nowadays, he spent almost all of his spare time in dusty ol' bar and dance halls, playing his guitar for nickles and dimes.
He needed to sleep or else he'd be going inside again to get a drink. But wait, there's something under the windshield wiper. A note:
"I guess we both had fun tonight; you got to see an old flame and I got "lucky"......thanks to you, I had a good teacher........was she worth it?"
The radio played Merle Haggard and Conway Twitty as he drove home to his empty room. Alone in his bed, he tossed and turned, unable to sleep. He saw his ol' friend in the corner and got out of bed to strum on it. A guitar can't talk back or hurt him; it was just an old guitar but theirs was a mutual love affair, blessed with respect and admiration. He strummed it and sang aloud "hello darlin'......"
The night was young and he was just an old singer in a country music band. They had warmed up and he was replacing a string on his guitar when he looked across the bar. He couldn't believe his eyes!
It took him back to yesterday when they first met in a bar in Clancy. He was going to school to learn how to be a chef and found a gig with a local band which helped pay the rent. The bar was called "Get Lucky Saloon" and they used to laugh about meeting there. They got lucky, all right!
She told him her name was Maureen but friends just called her Mauri. They danced to a juke-box while the old black man swept up the floor of all the litter and wasted paper napkins with phone numbers on them. She smelled like fresh ivory soap and looked like she was scared to death of a musician.
But he was the one scared shitless! She had class and he wasn't used to much of that where he came from in Arizona. He bought her a beer but she never touched it; he lit his cigarette and offered her a smoke but she politely declined. And when they sat together at an all-night diner, she asked him to say grace with her before they ate their burgers and shakes.
And there were to be no good-night kisses for awhile; she held up her hand and he dutifully kissed the warm top of it. She'd smile and rush inside like a schoolgirl; which she was. Just 18 and inside her first bar; he felt like the luckiest guy in town.
Years later, she'd tell him how she used to lay awake for hours after seeing him, wondering what his mouth would feel like on hers; his tongue in her mouth; his hands around her waist. He was doing the exact same thing in his own rented room.
Now, the sight of her on a tall barstool, took his breath away. He stood behind a wall so she couldn't see him; he wanted to be sure it was Mauri.
Then he saw it; she still wore his watch! It was one-of-a-kind given to him by his mother many years before he even left home. Mauri had loved it and he wanted her to have something of himself. That was before he hurt her; before he broke her heart into; before he turned her into what he was looking at tonight; a scarlett woman.
His mind flashed back to 1982 when she had to study for her final exams. They had been living together just a year and she was in school to be a Legal Assistant. Life was good and he had secured a great job at a local four star restaurant and was playing guitar on the side, every chance he could. The money was good!
He was playing and singing one night, having a bit too much to drink during their break when he felt his hormones recharging while watching a girl shake her rear on the dance floor. Mauri would not be dropping in tonight as she was home studying. When the stranger wiggled her way onto his lap during their second break, he was flattered and embarressed at the same time. She was after one thing as her hand groped him on the floor. He held her tighter so folks wouldn't see his excitement. She just threw her blond head back and laughed; he loved her laugh!
His buddies told him later, how they'd tried to lie for him but Mauri was too smart to fall for it. When she dropped in after the dance had ended and found him missing from the poker game inside, she went looking for him. And she didn't have far to look.
The only cars left out back belonged to the band; his van was rocking when she came knocking. Only she didn't bother to knock, she walked right in and when she did, the van's interior lit up like a stick of dynomite! You could have heard a condom drop!
He was naked and so was the girl; he never did know her name. Mauri had a look in her eyes like a deer caught in a pair of bright headlights. The girl yelled "What the f...?" before he slammed his hand over her mouth. And just like that, Mauri was gone.
And she stayed gone. He tried his best to reach her at her friends, at her school, at her parents home. She disappeared with just her car and her purse; he had never heard from or of her again; not until tonight. He had moved far away but still had never gotton over the pain. He studied her tonight......
Twenty years older now, she probably would not recognize him anyway but just in case, he borrowed some dark shades and found an old cowboy hat. The band had to go on; it was well after 10 o'clock and the drunken crowd was ready to boogey. He could hardly play and he damned well wasn't going to sing.
Ironically, the band played "Together Again" and he felt the tears start to come; no, he musn't let himself. She was still so strikingly beautiful! But she had changed; not shy at all anymore, she asked men to dance before they even had a chance to invite her. She danced provocatively and enticingly, her body not afraid to strut its stuff. Her pink velvet jeans were much too tight; her satin V-necked top was too low- cut and her purple hued hair was too young for her to carry off.
It was a very long night but he got through it; he kept his distance from her side of the bar and yet his eyes never left her face. He saw a lonely, chilling, vacant stare in her eyes as she held her cigarette out to be lit. The many mixed drinks she drank were all paid for by guys hoping to take her home; or take her anywhere.
Then she made her move. Walking straight to the lead singer, she whispered something in his ear and he laughed. Introducing herself as "Lucky", she asked him to slow dance with her now that the band had finished for the night. Before he could intervene, the singer and her were on the dance floor but it was more like he was holding her up. Her slim, tanned arms were wrapped around his thick neck; they kissed. She wasn't shy anymore as her leg wrapped around one of his and his hands slid down her velvet backside.
He watched as they left together; her fur coat swallowing her body and her high heeled boots clicking on the bare wooden floor. He went to the bar and ordered a hot coffee; he'd quit drinking years ago when he was told it was either that or death. Alcoholism was destroying him but living without her respect and love was what was really killing him.
The singer was inside before an hour had passed and they stood together in the men's room at the urinal's. "Man; I was just about raped in the parking lot!" he laughed. "Some chick named Lucky who said she screwed musicians as that's all we are any good for. Bitch! Makes no sense at all; but it was fine by me! Mighty fine!!"
After he got in his cold car and was waiting for the motor to warm up, he cried. He cried for her and for him and for the stupid, sordid mistake that had cost him so much; almost his life. Nowadays, he spent almost all of his spare time in dusty ol' bar and dance halls, playing his guitar for nickles and dimes.
He needed to sleep or else he'd be going inside again to get a drink. But wait, there's something under the windshield wiper. A note:
"I guess we both had fun tonight; you got to see an old flame and I got "lucky"......thanks to you, I had a good teacher........was she worth it?"
The radio played Merle Haggard and Conway Twitty as he drove home to his empty room. Alone in his bed, he tossed and turned, unable to sleep. He saw his ol' friend in the corner and got out of bed to strum on it. A guitar can't talk back or hurt him; it was just an old guitar but theirs was a mutual love affair, blessed with respect and admiration. He strummed it and sang aloud "hello darlin'......"
Monday, September 10, 2007
I STILL MISS YOU, BABY
I STILL MISS YOU, BABY
I've quit watching old, sad movies
I don't cry myself to sleep
It's been many months now
Since I even weep;
I tossed out all your photos
Threw your phone number away
But I still miss you, baby
Each and every single day.
I never wear that red plaid suit
That you liked so much
Or that satin negligee
That you loved to touch;
Nowadays I could care less
What songs you listen to
But I still miss you, baby
And I just wish you knew.
Someone else holds me now
And it feels just right
His kisses thrill me deeply
Almost every night;
I don't compare the two of you
I've forgot your middle name
But I still miss you, baby
I'm just tired of the game.
I saw you last December
Out shopping all alone
I just felt numb inside
You were on your phone;
I drove home in the snow
And asked God how come
I still miss you, baby?
Guess the hurting's just begun.
I hate you, baby......
I've quit watching old, sad movies
I don't cry myself to sleep
It's been many months now
Since I even weep;
I tossed out all your photos
Threw your phone number away
But I still miss you, baby
Each and every single day.
I never wear that red plaid suit
That you liked so much
Or that satin negligee
That you loved to touch;
Nowadays I could care less
What songs you listen to
But I still miss you, baby
And I just wish you knew.
Someone else holds me now
And it feels just right
His kisses thrill me deeply
Almost every night;
I don't compare the two of you
I've forgot your middle name
But I still miss you, baby
I'm just tired of the game.
I saw you last December
Out shopping all alone
I just felt numb inside
You were on your phone;
I drove home in the snow
And asked God how come
I still miss you, baby?
Guess the hurting's just begun.
I hate you, baby......
I DON'T WANT TO BE YOUR WIFE
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I DON'T WANT TO BE YOUR WIFE
You used to really look at me
With passion in your eyes
We used to spend long hours
Dressing in disguise;
I was once your "nurse"
And you were the "teacher"
I loved you as the "rock star"
And I played the "preacher".
Now the only game we play
Is poker with your pals
We don't go to bed together
I chat with the gals;
You stay up with the TV
I read a book in bed
And find you sleeping anywhere
You can lay your weary head.
I don't want to be your wife
I liked it best before
When we made love in the hammock
Or on the kitchen floor;
Our bodies may be older now
But I still feel the same
I want to be your girlfriend
One of your old flames.
Meet me at Joe's Bar & Grill
After nine o'clock tonight
I'll be in my fur coat
Dressed underneath in white;
If you don't want me then
In your ol' settled life
We'll just go our separate ways
I don't want to be your wife.
You used to really look at me
With passion in your eyes
We used to spend long hours
Dressing in disguise;
I was once your "nurse"
And you were the "teacher"
I loved you as the "rock star"
And I played the "preacher".
Now the only game we play
Is poker with your pals
We don't go to bed together
I chat with the gals;
You stay up with the TV
I read a book in bed
And find you sleeping anywhere
You can lay your weary head.
I don't want to be your wife
I liked it best before
When we made love in the hammock
Or on the kitchen floor;
Our bodies may be older now
But I still feel the same
I want to be your girlfriend
One of your old flames.
Meet me at Joe's Bar & Grill
After nine o'clock tonight
I'll be in my fur coat
Dressed underneath in white;
If you don't want me then
In your ol' settled life
We'll just go our separate ways
I don't want to be your wife.
Sunday, September 9, 2007
THE STRANGER
THE STRANGER
The congregation was sparse on this particular Sunday morning. As the rain beat hard against the stained glass windows, the heat automatically came on inside. The many lights high overhead began to flicker and go off and on.
The choir had just finished singing an anthem when the Minister announced a change in the program. He said he had invited a person with whom he had spoken with at length to address our service. We all wondered who it could be!
After the offering was received and blessed, we settled inside the warm sanctuary to listen to the invited guest.
He schuffled to the pulpit as we all stared in awe at his threadbare jacket and blue jeans. His hair was short and white and he had a blue bandana tied around his neck. His faded jacket once had been trimmed with fringe and gave him the look of an old cowpoke.
He didn't need a microphone. His voice was loud and strong and could be heard miles away. The first words out of his mouth were "Jesus loves me."
We all sat and watched as he stood to speak. This is what he said:
"I reckon you're all wondering
What brought me in here
You can't tell that I'm poor
And just drank my last beer;
Folks like you hate folks like me
I know cuz I've been both
Right now I need a cigarette
To hang out of my mouth."
Well, we didn't know what to say
Or if we should even grin
But he wore a wide smile
It looked so good on him;
"I ain't much of a singer
But sinning suits me fine
Jesus loves me, this I know
This coat ain't even mine."
"I 'borrowed' it from Frenchies
'Today 'twas cold in there
I spent my last few dollars
To pay a girl to cut my hair;
If I eat that's good and if I don't
I know I'll be all right
'Cuz I know He'll find for me
A bite to eat tonight."
The congregation sat in silence
And did not move at all
The Minister sat with his wife
Longed face, against the wall;
The guest smiled at the crowd
As his voice began to sing
Never, ever have we heard
A voice like that again!
He sang "Jesus loves me"
Sweet and strong and true
There wasn't any organ
Every verse he knew;
He sang for his supper
As God would want us to
Help this stranger passing by
Like He would me and you.
We all went for refreshments
To the kitchen downstairs
He refused to take the offering plate
But ate some pineapple squares;
The snow was softly falling
As he hitch-hiked out of town
And proudly hugged his only son
Who wears our Minister's gown.
After he had left, no-one spoke for a bit and then our Minister told us how his father had suddenly looked him up after a decade of no contact with any of their family. He couldn't convince him to stay.
We were headed home in our warm car when we saw the old man, thumb stuck out for a ride to somewhere in the opposite direction. I'm not sure but I thought he looked very content with his lot in life; only God and him would know.
The congregation was sparse on this particular Sunday morning. As the rain beat hard against the stained glass windows, the heat automatically came on inside. The many lights high overhead began to flicker and go off and on.
The choir had just finished singing an anthem when the Minister announced a change in the program. He said he had invited a person with whom he had spoken with at length to address our service. We all wondered who it could be!
After the offering was received and blessed, we settled inside the warm sanctuary to listen to the invited guest.
He schuffled to the pulpit as we all stared in awe at his threadbare jacket and blue jeans. His hair was short and white and he had a blue bandana tied around his neck. His faded jacket once had been trimmed with fringe and gave him the look of an old cowpoke.
He didn't need a microphone. His voice was loud and strong and could be heard miles away. The first words out of his mouth were "Jesus loves me."
We all sat and watched as he stood to speak. This is what he said:
"I reckon you're all wondering
What brought me in here
You can't tell that I'm poor
And just drank my last beer;
Folks like you hate folks like me
I know cuz I've been both
Right now I need a cigarette
To hang out of my mouth."
Well, we didn't know what to say
Or if we should even grin
But he wore a wide smile
It looked so good on him;
"I ain't much of a singer
But sinning suits me fine
Jesus loves me, this I know
This coat ain't even mine."
"I 'borrowed' it from Frenchies
'Today 'twas cold in there
I spent my last few dollars
To pay a girl to cut my hair;
If I eat that's good and if I don't
I know I'll be all right
'Cuz I know He'll find for me
A bite to eat tonight."
The congregation sat in silence
And did not move at all
The Minister sat with his wife
Longed face, against the wall;
The guest smiled at the crowd
As his voice began to sing
Never, ever have we heard
A voice like that again!
He sang "Jesus loves me"
Sweet and strong and true
There wasn't any organ
Every verse he knew;
He sang for his supper
As God would want us to
Help this stranger passing by
Like He would me and you.
We all went for refreshments
To the kitchen downstairs
He refused to take the offering plate
But ate some pineapple squares;
The snow was softly falling
As he hitch-hiked out of town
And proudly hugged his only son
Who wears our Minister's gown.
After he had left, no-one spoke for a bit and then our Minister told us how his father had suddenly looked him up after a decade of no contact with any of their family. He couldn't convince him to stay.
We were headed home in our warm car when we saw the old man, thumb stuck out for a ride to somewhere in the opposite direction. I'm not sure but I thought he looked very content with his lot in life; only God and him would know.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
WINGS
WINGS
I had just tuned up my old guitar
To play one Saturday night
We were at the Opry
And all the lights were bright;
We were going on stage soon
I almost missed my cue
When I heard a small voice ask
"Could I have a word with you?"
I looked down into her face
And saw a brown-eyed lass
She couldn't be more than 8 years old
Or maybe 10, I guess;
She wore a pair of overalls
And had her hair in braids
I never will forget that night
As she spoke to me and said:
"Do you know an older song
About some slippery things?
My mama used to sing to me
Before she got her wings";
I saw a broken-hearted girl
With teardrops on her face
I said 'Sure we do, sweetheart
Now you go take your place."
She sat down front on the floor
And as we took the stage
I told the other fellas
To turn to that song page;
I sang to her and only her
For her Mama who had died
"SHE'S WEARIN' SLIPPERS WITH WINGS"
And the little girl just cried.
I thought of my sweet Mama then
And could not wait to call
We took a break and I left
For the pay phone down the hall;
Her answering machine picked up
So my message I did sing
But when I looked for that little lass
There was just a pair of wings.
I had just tuned up my old guitar
To play one Saturday night
We were at the Opry
And all the lights were bright;
We were going on stage soon
I almost missed my cue
When I heard a small voice ask
"Could I have a word with you?"
I looked down into her face
And saw a brown-eyed lass
She couldn't be more than 8 years old
Or maybe 10, I guess;
She wore a pair of overalls
And had her hair in braids
I never will forget that night
As she spoke to me and said:
"Do you know an older song
About some slippery things?
My mama used to sing to me
Before she got her wings";
I saw a broken-hearted girl
With teardrops on her face
I said 'Sure we do, sweetheart
Now you go take your place."
She sat down front on the floor
And as we took the stage
I told the other fellas
To turn to that song page;
I sang to her and only her
For her Mama who had died
"SHE'S WEARIN' SLIPPERS WITH WINGS"
And the little girl just cried.
I thought of my sweet Mama then
And could not wait to call
We took a break and I left
For the pay phone down the hall;
Her answering machine picked up
So my message I did sing
But when I looked for that little lass
There was just a pair of wings.
WEST
WEST
Tomorrow you're leaving, you're going out West
I just want to say that I wish you the best........
You always said that's what I was,
When we were man and wife,
"Your best and precious angel",
Before you changed your whole life.
When that airplane turns, to leave the runway
I'll recall the ticket you bought.... "one way"......
That white circle on your finger,
Where my ring used to be,
Tells the whole, sad story,
About us...you and me.
The West may offer you great wealth untold
But the east warmed you when you were cold .......
As you fly away tomorrow,
And leave 'us' far behind,
You'll forget me by sundown,
As a new love you will find.
Tomorrow you're leaving, you're going out West
In your new blue jeans and black, suede vest....
I'll use your pillow tonight,
To catch & hold my tears,
As you throw the love aside,
I gave to you through two years.
When those four strong winds start blowin'
And you don't know if you're comin' or goin'.....
And when you go shopping,
As it near's Christmas Day,
Don't get drunk like last year,
Forgetting His birthday.
Tomorrow you're leaving, you're going out West
To hell with us and all of the rest.....
As I wave to your airplane,
I'm wearing a tent-dress,
To hide our baby.....
Good-bye and God bless.
Tomorrow you're leaving, you're going out West
I just want to say that I wish you the best........
You always said that's what I was,
When we were man and wife,
"Your best and precious angel",
Before you changed your whole life.
When that airplane turns, to leave the runway
I'll recall the ticket you bought.... "one way"......
That white circle on your finger,
Where my ring used to be,
Tells the whole, sad story,
About us...you and me.
The West may offer you great wealth untold
But the east warmed you when you were cold .......
As you fly away tomorrow,
And leave 'us' far behind,
You'll forget me by sundown,
As a new love you will find.
Tomorrow you're leaving, you're going out West
In your new blue jeans and black, suede vest....
I'll use your pillow tonight,
To catch & hold my tears,
As you throw the love aside,
I gave to you through two years.
When those four strong winds start blowin'
And you don't know if you're comin' or goin'.....
And when you go shopping,
As it near's Christmas Day,
Don't get drunk like last year,
Forgetting His birthday.
Tomorrow you're leaving, you're going out West
To hell with us and all of the rest.....
As I wave to your airplane,
I'm wearing a tent-dress,
To hide our baby.....
Good-bye and God bless.
Monday, September 3, 2007
THE GOLDEN KEY
THE GOLDEN KEY
They walk the solid Boardwalk
Almost every single day
Her dog stops to sniff & smell
He pulls her the whole way;
Sometimes they stop at the Playground
To have a little swing
Sometimes they stop to feed the ducks
Or hear the seagulls sing.
They call her "Boardwalk Angel"
And watch her by the sea
As they wonder what's inside
Her little golden key;
Does it unlock her house doors
Or maybe fit her car?
Why does she just cling to it?
Did it drop from a falling star?
I asked her that question
One day while she sat
On a bench all by herself
Wearing a baseball hat;
She turned to me and smiled
As her eyes began to dart
Staring at the ocean blue:
"It is the key to my heart."
"I keep it with me all the time
So no-one will ever steal
My love and my honour
So I don't ever, ever feel:
Dependent on another man
To be acccused or abused
In the years that I have left
I never again will feel used."
She walked away with her key
And the tide was coming in
I often wondered where she went
'Cuz I never say her again;
Some say she moved away
We don't know any more
But one day at full tide
The key was washed ashore.
Perhaps she met and fell in love
With someone she could trust
Perhaps she sacrificed herself
And has just turned to dust;
I like to think she's happy
With Prince Charming by her side
And she threw away the key
'Cuz he'll stay with her 'til she dies.
They walk the solid Boardwalk
Almost every single day
Her dog stops to sniff & smell
He pulls her the whole way;
Sometimes they stop at the Playground
To have a little swing
Sometimes they stop to feed the ducks
Or hear the seagulls sing.
They call her "Boardwalk Angel"
And watch her by the sea
As they wonder what's inside
Her little golden key;
Does it unlock her house doors
Or maybe fit her car?
Why does she just cling to it?
Did it drop from a falling star?
I asked her that question
One day while she sat
On a bench all by herself
Wearing a baseball hat;
She turned to me and smiled
As her eyes began to dart
Staring at the ocean blue:
"It is the key to my heart."
"I keep it with me all the time
So no-one will ever steal
My love and my honour
So I don't ever, ever feel:
Dependent on another man
To be acccused or abused
In the years that I have left
I never again will feel used."
She walked away with her key
And the tide was coming in
I often wondered where she went
'Cuz I never say her again;
Some say she moved away
We don't know any more
But one day at full tide
The key was washed ashore.
Perhaps she met and fell in love
With someone she could trust
Perhaps she sacrificed herself
And has just turned to dust;
I like to think she's happy
With Prince Charming by her side
And she threw away the key
'Cuz he'll stay with her 'til she dies.
"DON'T WAIT UP FOR ME"
"DON'T WAIT UP FOR ME"
The darkness surrounds her room
As she writes her final note
And makes her bed for the last time
Covers her pyjamas with a coat;
Her friends are at a party
It's already ten past three
All they'll see on the note
Is: "Don't wait up for me."
The moon is bright tonight
The CD plays quite loud
She drives on past the party
Past the drinking crowd;
Conway Twitty's singing
Her favourite: "Hello darlin'"
She stops her trembling as
The snow starts softly fallin'.
She leaves the keys in the car
With another, longer note:
"It's not your fault, Mom & Dad"
Then she climbs into a boat;
The anchor's fastened to her foot
She closes her eyes to see:
Her friends faces as they read
"Don't wait up for me."
They wouldn't even notice much
The tearstains on the page
Or her bird, missing now
From his small, cramped cage;
She releases him to Heaven
From his tiny prison cell
And wonders where she's headed
Probably straight to Hell.
The water looks so peaceful
She hears a lonely sound
It must be her own sobs
There's nothing else around;
He won't even miss her
But it's only him she sees
"Hello darlin', nice to see you"
"Don't wait up for me."
The darkness surrounds her room
As she writes her final note
And makes her bed for the last time
Covers her pyjamas with a coat;
Her friends are at a party
It's already ten past three
All they'll see on the note
Is: "Don't wait up for me."
The moon is bright tonight
The CD plays quite loud
She drives on past the party
Past the drinking crowd;
Conway Twitty's singing
Her favourite: "Hello darlin'"
She stops her trembling as
The snow starts softly fallin'.
She leaves the keys in the car
With another, longer note:
"It's not your fault, Mom & Dad"
Then she climbs into a boat;
The anchor's fastened to her foot
She closes her eyes to see:
Her friends faces as they read
"Don't wait up for me."
They wouldn't even notice much
The tearstains on the page
Or her bird, missing now
From his small, cramped cage;
She releases him to Heaven
From his tiny prison cell
And wonders where she's headed
Probably straight to Hell.
The water looks so peaceful
She hears a lonely sound
It must be her own sobs
There's nothing else around;
He won't even miss her
But it's only him she sees
"Hello darlin', nice to see you"
"Don't wait up for me."
Saturday, September 1, 2007
QUEEN
If I were the Queen of England, things would be significantly different than the way they are now. I would not be afraid to exert my power to govern my people.
As "Queen Heather" I would first and foremost ban the sale of cigarettes in my Country. Should any of the people be caught smoking, the penalty would be loss of their free healthcare for a period of 1 year. Caught again and they would lose their healthcare forever.
Secondly, I would ban the use of cellphones except in extreme emergencies and ONLY in a stationary vehicle. They would not be permitted in any public venue and if caught doing so, a $500 pound (fine) would be required.
I also would not permit a marriage license until one has known and dated their partner for at least a 2 year period. Witnesses to that effect would swear to the duration of their courtship.
I would create a Marriage Decree good for a period of 5 years, renewable at it's expiration, in additional 3 year increment(s). Should one or both decide to end their marriage, it would automatically be dissolved without a divorce being necessary or required legally. Children would remain in the home with whichever parent chose to reside there. Otherwise, joint custody is awarded with the child spending equal time with either parent.
Any useage or sale of illegal drugs in England would justify immediate and permanent deportation if done so by an outsider. If a Brit, a prison term of 1 year for the 1st offense and 10 years for each recurrance.
Abortions would only be legal if a victim of rape, incest or proof the child is going to be mentally or physically incapacitated and has no chance of a life without the use of life support.
As Queen I would not allow children under the age of 8, to any movie theatre after dark. Also, they would be barred from fine dining restaurants after 6 o'clock.
A dress code for all schools would be introduced and adhered to in that a Uniform would be the only requirement. Bookbags would remain at school until Friday and returned on Mondays, allowing for stronger backs and better posture. Every child would be furnished with a school computer at home in which their study material and homework would be electronically submitted.
Banking hours (with a live Teller) would be for the public's convenience and open by 7 am with a closing time of 7 pm including Saturdays; no exceptions.
Seniors would have free delivery, twice weekly, from all major grocery chains AND Pharmacies, with a phone-in or emailed request list. Reduced taxi fares for Seniors would be subsidized at 50% by the Government.
All dental care would be paid for by a special mandatory tax and such care would be free from age birth to death.
Pet care would be at greatly reduced rates for preventative needs and "Pet Parks" would be plentiful and spacious, allowing for dogs and their owners 24/7.
Speed limits would be optional once outside the city limits.
Gambling would be legal in certain limited licensed venues to people aged 30 plus.
Two years military service is mandatory for both sexes after High School if not attending a University full time. The exception would ONLY be if it is a mental or health concern.
Once a prisoner has done his/her requested time, they are not obligated to divulge their past record to anyone if they continue to adhere to their Parole requirements (exception: child sex offenders).
If I were the Queen of England, Music, Physical Education, Sex Education, Home Economics, Industrial Arts, a Foreign Language and Manners101 would all be compulsary from Grade 3 to Grade 11.
As Queen Heather, I would allow one Election every 5 years for all local and National Elections. There would ONLY be 2 months of free politicing prior to the Election date.
Queen Heather would be legally retired before the age of 70, allowing for her heir to reign.
Queen Heather would be paid based on the costs of her Castle residence, Security, Staff and miscellaneous requirements plus a salary to be determined by her public PLUS one million U.S. dollars for each year of her life.
God Save the Queen.
As "Queen Heather" I would first and foremost ban the sale of cigarettes in my Country. Should any of the people be caught smoking, the penalty would be loss of their free healthcare for a period of 1 year. Caught again and they would lose their healthcare forever.
Secondly, I would ban the use of cellphones except in extreme emergencies and ONLY in a stationary vehicle. They would not be permitted in any public venue and if caught doing so, a $500 pound (fine) would be required.
I also would not permit a marriage license until one has known and dated their partner for at least a 2 year period. Witnesses to that effect would swear to the duration of their courtship.
I would create a Marriage Decree good for a period of 5 years, renewable at it's expiration, in additional 3 year increment(s). Should one or both decide to end their marriage, it would automatically be dissolved without a divorce being necessary or required legally. Children would remain in the home with whichever parent chose to reside there. Otherwise, joint custody is awarded with the child spending equal time with either parent.
Any useage or sale of illegal drugs in England would justify immediate and permanent deportation if done so by an outsider. If a Brit, a prison term of 1 year for the 1st offense and 10 years for each recurrance.
Abortions would only be legal if a victim of rape, incest or proof the child is going to be mentally or physically incapacitated and has no chance of a life without the use of life support.
As Queen I would not allow children under the age of 8, to any movie theatre after dark. Also, they would be barred from fine dining restaurants after 6 o'clock.
A dress code for all schools would be introduced and adhered to in that a Uniform would be the only requirement. Bookbags would remain at school until Friday and returned on Mondays, allowing for stronger backs and better posture. Every child would be furnished with a school computer at home in which their study material and homework would be electronically submitted.
Banking hours (with a live Teller) would be for the public's convenience and open by 7 am with a closing time of 7 pm including Saturdays; no exceptions.
Seniors would have free delivery, twice weekly, from all major grocery chains AND Pharmacies, with a phone-in or emailed request list. Reduced taxi fares for Seniors would be subsidized at 50% by the Government.
All dental care would be paid for by a special mandatory tax and such care would be free from age birth to death.
Pet care would be at greatly reduced rates for preventative needs and "Pet Parks" would be plentiful and spacious, allowing for dogs and their owners 24/7.
Speed limits would be optional once outside the city limits.
Gambling would be legal in certain limited licensed venues to people aged 30 plus.
Two years military service is mandatory for both sexes after High School if not attending a University full time. The exception would ONLY be if it is a mental or health concern.
Once a prisoner has done his/her requested time, they are not obligated to divulge their past record to anyone if they continue to adhere to their Parole requirements (exception: child sex offenders).
If I were the Queen of England, Music, Physical Education, Sex Education, Home Economics, Industrial Arts, a Foreign Language and Manners101 would all be compulsary from Grade 3 to Grade 11.
As Queen Heather, I would allow one Election every 5 years for all local and National Elections. There would ONLY be 2 months of free politicing prior to the Election date.
Queen Heather would be legally retired before the age of 70, allowing for her heir to reign.
Queen Heather would be paid based on the costs of her Castle residence, Security, Staff and miscellaneous requirements plus a salary to be determined by her public PLUS one million U.S. dollars for each year of her life.
God Save the Queen.
"IMAGINE"
"Imagine"
The mail brought the usual bills today. The radio told of minor car accidents, a falling Stock Market and talked about who was performing the worst on American Idol last night.
The phone rang and it was a telemarketer wanting my input on global issues. My bank statement had more checks than deposits. My emails were all funny jokes or blue humour, a light hearted approach to serious subjects like the next Election, the Pope and of course, the usual "dumb" Newfoundland joke.
My dog needed walking but I chose to selfishly spend 15 minutes on my exercise bike so I could watch Regis & Kelly. My attic needed cleaning up so as it is above freezing outside today, I went up there and worked a bit until I got too cold and missed the warmth of my living room.
I couldn't decide on what to eat so I fried some bologna and eggs; fixed a hot chocolate to drink. I read the newspaper on line and wrote a bit more on a story I've begun. I sang along to the old Country tunes from Eastlink TV's daily program, songs I love by Connie Francis, Neal Sedaka and Roy Orberson.
I sewed a button on my jacket; fixed a salad for lunch; plucked my eyebrows; brushed my teeth; ironed three outfits; answered another phone call; did a crossword puzzle; bathed my dog; vacuumned my area rugs; made my bed. All of the things I do daily or weekly and never think twice about: needing/having/using my own eyes and ears.
Imagine a world where there is no day light; simply darkness, pitch blackness. Close your eyes tightly and hold them there for the count of 10.
Now imagine a world where there is not one sound, not the noise of people talking, traffic moving, television blaring, popcorn popping, music playing and not even hearing the sound of your own screaming. With your eyes still tightly shut, cover both ears and press tightly with your hands.
Now imagine knowing a person like that; a human being who is disabled FOREVER in his or her own private Hell. Worse, imagine that person being a small child of age two or three. Would you want to be their parent?
Now imagine that you are; not the parent to just one blind/deaf little girl; not the mommy or daddy of just one child but two; twins. Now, imagine being the mother of THREE of them, triplets. All blind, living in not color as we do; not even in black and white; but all black. All deaf, 100%. Their world hears no Barney songs, no soothing bedtime stories, no silly rhymes and cartoons. Their head is silent; their eyes & ears are parts of their head. But they are of no use to them whatsoever.
I "saw" and "heard" this true but horrific story on the Dr. Phil Show today and it touched my heart. Imagine having triplets; now imagine being told that one is deaf; now imagine being told one is blind; then, finally, being told that all three of your triplet newborn babies are deaf AND blind, with NO chance of ever hearing or seeing.
The mother is young, gorgeous enough to be a famous model, a dedicated and loving mommy who is totally overwhelmed but never willing to even think about placing them somewhere other than "home" with her. (her second husband helps but is close to running)
As I cook supper and plan my evening around a long, hot bath, a good book and yes, American Idol, I feel as if God is trying to tell me something. My back aches tonight from exercising and vacuuming and my hands are cold from keeping the heat on 59F to save money and my bank balance is dangerously low. But imagine trading places with that woman in the USA? No way!
God has a way of selecting the right parents for His special needs children and I thank Him for that. There but for the Grace of God, go I.
The mail brought the usual bills today. The radio told of minor car accidents, a falling Stock Market and talked about who was performing the worst on American Idol last night.
The phone rang and it was a telemarketer wanting my input on global issues. My bank statement had more checks than deposits. My emails were all funny jokes or blue humour, a light hearted approach to serious subjects like the next Election, the Pope and of course, the usual "dumb" Newfoundland joke.
My dog needed walking but I chose to selfishly spend 15 minutes on my exercise bike so I could watch Regis & Kelly. My attic needed cleaning up so as it is above freezing outside today, I went up there and worked a bit until I got too cold and missed the warmth of my living room.
I couldn't decide on what to eat so I fried some bologna and eggs; fixed a hot chocolate to drink. I read the newspaper on line and wrote a bit more on a story I've begun. I sang along to the old Country tunes from Eastlink TV's daily program, songs I love by Connie Francis, Neal Sedaka and Roy Orberson.
I sewed a button on my jacket; fixed a salad for lunch; plucked my eyebrows; brushed my teeth; ironed three outfits; answered another phone call; did a crossword puzzle; bathed my dog; vacuumned my area rugs; made my bed. All of the things I do daily or weekly and never think twice about: needing/having/using my own eyes and ears.
Imagine a world where there is no day light; simply darkness, pitch blackness. Close your eyes tightly and hold them there for the count of 10.
Now imagine a world where there is not one sound, not the noise of people talking, traffic moving, television blaring, popcorn popping, music playing and not even hearing the sound of your own screaming. With your eyes still tightly shut, cover both ears and press tightly with your hands.
Now imagine knowing a person like that; a human being who is disabled FOREVER in his or her own private Hell. Worse, imagine that person being a small child of age two or three. Would you want to be their parent?
Now imagine that you are; not the parent to just one blind/deaf little girl; not the mommy or daddy of just one child but two; twins. Now, imagine being the mother of THREE of them, triplets. All blind, living in not color as we do; not even in black and white; but all black. All deaf, 100%. Their world hears no Barney songs, no soothing bedtime stories, no silly rhymes and cartoons. Their head is silent; their eyes & ears are parts of their head. But they are of no use to them whatsoever.
I "saw" and "heard" this true but horrific story on the Dr. Phil Show today and it touched my heart. Imagine having triplets; now imagine being told that one is deaf; now imagine being told one is blind; then, finally, being told that all three of your triplet newborn babies are deaf AND blind, with NO chance of ever hearing or seeing.
The mother is young, gorgeous enough to be a famous model, a dedicated and loving mommy who is totally overwhelmed but never willing to even think about placing them somewhere other than "home" with her. (her second husband helps but is close to running)
As I cook supper and plan my evening around a long, hot bath, a good book and yes, American Idol, I feel as if God is trying to tell me something. My back aches tonight from exercising and vacuuming and my hands are cold from keeping the heat on 59F to save money and my bank balance is dangerously low. But imagine trading places with that woman in the USA? No way!
God has a way of selecting the right parents for His special needs children and I thank Him for that. There but for the Grace of God, go I.
WHY CAN'T SHE BE "ME"?
Why Can't She Be "Me"?"
Twice a year she drives past
His little white house in town
Once when the sun is hot & bright
And once when snow's falling down;
She sees two cars in their drive
And a playground-set out back
His clothes on their clothesline
Blue jeans, boxers, that shirt in black.
Once she saw him walking
By himself, just before dark
He looked so sad and lonely;
She sighed aloud "Oh, Mark!"
She wished she was beside him
To hold his hand and smile
To take him home to bed
Love him to pieces for awhile.
Living their "settled" lives
Breathing the same air
Brushing their own teeth
Combing their own hair;
The grass could use cutting
Snow is often piled high
She glances at their window
Before she says "good-bye."
She prays God watches over him
As he goes about his life
With his few, dear grandkids
And his dark haired wife;
She prays she'll find the strength
To detour round his road
'To make her heart start healing
And lessen her heavy load.
Back inside her warm house
The quiet and the calm
Welcome her back home again
Like a soothing, gentle balm;
She looks at the empty bed
And thinks of she and he
And asks God as she kneels:
"Why can't she be me?"
Twice a year she drives past
His little white house in town
Once when the sun is hot & bright
And once when snow's falling down;
She sees two cars in their drive
And a playground-set out back
His clothes on their clothesline
Blue jeans, boxers, that shirt in black.
Once she saw him walking
By himself, just before dark
He looked so sad and lonely;
She sighed aloud "Oh, Mark!"
She wished she was beside him
To hold his hand and smile
To take him home to bed
Love him to pieces for awhile.
Living their "settled" lives
Breathing the same air
Brushing their own teeth
Combing their own hair;
The grass could use cutting
Snow is often piled high
She glances at their window
Before she says "good-bye."
She prays God watches over him
As he goes about his life
With his few, dear grandkids
And his dark haired wife;
She prays she'll find the strength
To detour round his road
'To make her heart start healing
And lessen her heavy load.
Back inside her warm house
The quiet and the calm
Welcome her back home again
Like a soothing, gentle balm;
She looks at the empty bed
And thinks of she and he
And asks God as she kneels:
"Why can't she be me?"
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