Possessions
A lifetime of her belongings were there,
Thrown onto the lawn for the world to share.
Old age had come and ends wouldn't meet,
She couldn't manage to stay on her feet.
Gifts that were handmade by her children in school,
And the bright paper fans that she used to stay cool.
These were all worthless to those looking that day,
But priceless to her, each in it's own way.
I felt salty tears start to run down my face,
It could be me someday,
that stands in her place.
I picked up a plate, chipped and broken,
Paid her then handed it back as my token.
I picked up a toaster, a pair of shoes too,
I felt it was the least a human could do.
I watched for a minute, before I could go,
Watched this lady, with hair as white as snow.
I hope that I carry just half of her grace.
I'll never forget that look on her face.
To her, it was home, to them, just a place.
Author
Dianna L. Petry
copright 2001
Used with her permission
Places in my Heart
Sometimes in the darkest places of my heart,
I allow my fears to run free.
I wonder about my life story,
And if anyone has really loved me.
My reflection is mirrored from my soul,
I see things in myself that others can't see.
There is more than the wrinkles and graying hair,
That makes the woman that is me.
My inner child has been lost somewhere,
She struggles to break free.
Work and family, trying to pay the bills,
Have left some scars on me.
My smile was nearly left behind,
When loved ones died and left me.
There were times when I felt so alone,
That the night nearly suffocated me.
The fear of growing old and frail alone,
Still haunts my heart each day.
Love comes so easily to a chosen few,
They hold hands and romp and play.
For me, it seems that always has to wait,
There are other things that have to be.
I still don't know what lies ahead,
But I'm content now to wait and see.
Author
Dianna Petry
copyright 2002
Used with her permission
