Thank You For the Blessings.

[thestoryteller]

It's been said that a picture is worth a thousand words...we know many that are worthy of a poem. In Art Spur, we invite poets to let selections of Western art inspire their poetry.

Our eleventh piece offered to "spur" the imagination, as part of the celebration of the National Day of the Cowboy (July 28, 2007) is "Great Day to be a Cowboy," a painting by notable Kansas artist, Don Dane.

Poem submissions were welcome from all through July 15, 2007.

http://www.cowboypoetry.com/artspurndc07.htm#mw

Thank You for the Blessings

“It’s eighty years or so now Pap, since Gramps came out this way,
and with his bride, a one eyed horse, a cow and ageing dray.
You said they had the basics, and recalled how life was rough,
as living under canvas could at times be mighty tough.

But both of them they had a dream, there hearts were in this land,
and looking round it’s not that hard to say I understand
just how they felt … as mine is too and Pa …you felt the same;
and Sir I don’t mind saying that I’m proud to bear your name.

The old wood hut that Grandpa built still stands down by the stream,
I’ve tried to keep it in repair, respecting that man’s dream.
From time to time I sit upon its stairs and write my songs,
about the way of things today; life’s many rights and wrongs.

The roses in the garden are from stock that grandma grew
and cared for by my dear, sweet wife as she loves roses too.
The picket fence Ma had you build stands out from way up here
and though Ma’s frail she’s keeping well and always full of cheer.

Its’ must’ring time and both my boys are helping with the mob.
They’re sure content here on the place and do a real good job.
Their hearts are in the land too Pap and things are looking sound.
I’m sure Gramp’s dream will carry on when I am not around.

I miss your guiding hand at times, you’re company as well,
though have enjoyed just sitting here and talking for a spell.
I’d better catch up with the boys and Pap … just let me say,
I thank both you and Grandpa for the blessings I’ve today.”

© 2007, Merv Webster

[Shelley Hansen]

Well said, Merv - a fitting tribute to those who have preceded us and helped to shape us into the people we are.

Really enjoyed it.

Cheers
Shelley

[thestoryteller]

Appreciate your sharing it Shelly.

I have a great love of genealogy and have compiled books on most of my paternal and maternal rellies.

Love the challenges they faced and the stories.

Great to share the culture of other folk as well.


Merv.