Non-matching silverware, clunky drawers
String mop-cleaning chipped linoleum floors
Handwashing laundry to hang-dry outdoors
Margarine-tub saving—and coupons for stores
Meatloaf, spaghetti, grilled cheese, Spanish rice
Made simply with love and wisdom and spice
Windows with drafts, floorboards that creaked
Worn-out appliances, plumbing that leaked
No cash for new threads, just second-hand clothes
But I always came first before ever she chose
She'd work all day cutting and loading young trees
Until she had drained all her energies,
Then repeat the next day with stunning volition,
To the detriment of her back's condition
I watched her struggle, strain, and strive
But still she kept her hopes alive
"Someday our ship will come in," she'd say
As she dreamed of an easier, better day
She prayed and taught me the Lord was good
And to be grateful, as well I should
We'd always pray and thank God above
We didn't have much, but we had lots of love
To sing for the masses she had great plans,
But her songs only reached a small number of fans
Unrealized potential and unfulfilled dreams
Seemed to float her along in endless streams
Through hardship and faith, close friends as such,
She toiled for her family and sacrificed much
And now in that mansion I trust she resides,
Just over the hilltop, bright blooms on all sides
No more carrying burdens, no hard labor to do
Just a song in her heart--all her dreams have come true
© 2024 Teresa Miles Kephart
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