Homework - What Mum said

[Catherine Lee]

Flick the devil off your shoulder; send him firmly on his way!
Don’t sit dwelling on the milk you’ve spilt—just focus on today;
for the past is gone—don’t gnaw it like a dog that’s found a bone
or the weight of it will drag you down as if it were a stone.
Eat a little bit of something raw each day— it’s good for health!
And remember this, and happiness, is worth far more than wealth.
Don’t put every egg in just one basket— give yourself more scope—
and in any situation know there’s always room for hope.

For such things are sent to try us - but it’s how we rise above—
don’t destroy yourself with anger—learn forgiveness, patience, love.
Don’t concern yourself with worrying what other people say—
just remain yourself, and if they’re cruel just simply walk away.
When you have a worthy impulse seize your chance and don’t eschew,
for you never know whose day you’ll brighten once you see it through.
Nothing ventured nothing gained—attempt to always wear a smile—
hold your tongue until the words are kind, and go the extra mile...

Sadly now she’s in a rest home and at times the devil taunts—
with the fact a breakdown put her there a thought that often haunts.
She laments it ever happened, yet is anxious every day
over silly, pointless issues—and there‘s nothing we can say;
while her diet’s grim (her stomach’s weak and teeth ache when she chews),
and she shrinks in fear and horror at the headlines on the news.
She gets stressed about what others think, her paranoia grows—
though she clings to Dad for comfort, her frustration sometimes shows.

She’s in pain and feeling miserable, but now and then we see
reappearance of her spirit jogged by happy memory.
There’s a spark of hope or humour, act of love behind the scenes—
and because we know this costs her, we’re aware how much it means.
So I think the most important things she’s put inside my mind
are to not delay good impulse, and endeavour to be kind.
Now I sit beside her, take Mum’s hand and pray my love will show
as I gently coax that constant, lovely smile I used to know.

[Bob Pacey]

Beautiful Catherine and great to see you having a go at the prompts.


Makes my effort seem paltry


Cheers Bob

[Cropduster]

Simply beautiful to read, and filled with love.

As with Bob, my efforts seem insignificant by comparison.

Very moving poem, and exquisitely crafted.

Allan

[Heather]

Mums are very wise. Very sweet Catherine.

Heather

[DollyDot]

Catherine, what a beautiful poem.
Mothers they're so there until they're not!
Miss mine heaps!

cheers

Dot

[Maureen K Clifford]

Beautifully done Catherine - nicely crafted and completely addressed the challenge - well done.

[Catherine Lee]

Thank you so much everyone - my first time with the homework so was a bit nervous - really appreciate your warm feedback

[Catherine Lee]

P.S. But Bob and Allan - your efforts are anything BUT 'paltry' or 'insignificant' !!!

[Ron]

I like that one Catherine, beautiful poem, and what a lovely evaluation of life's journey!

Ron

[Catherine Lee]

Thank you very much Ron for your kind words - I really appreciate it x