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My Grandfather Clock

Its sonorous tone has struck the hours for well over a hundred years, But time hath surely taken its toll on its weary wheels and gears. 'Tis built of sturdy oak by craftsmen who took pride in their guild. My old friend stands nigh seven feet tall and leaves my life fulfilled. To keep fit he needs a tune-up now and then as all we old guys do, And with a generous squirt of oil here and there, he runs just like new! His beaming face shines and his rhythmic tick-tock tells me all is well. He's a dear and treasured companion for all who in this home do dwell. Oh, if only he could talk of the many things he's witnessed during his life; Birth, death, sad and happy times, the struggles of foolish man in strife. Old Grandpap has been quite the world traveler since his birth in Bavaria. He's been to Japan and all over America - he's covered a lot of area! How comforting it is to hear his soothing chimes in the still of the night, Knowing that he is keeping time for me and that everything is alright. With each pendulum swing he reminds me that my time on earth is measured. Time I dare not squander and time with friends and family must be treasured! Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired (c) 2014 All Rights Reserved

Copyright © | Year Posted 2014




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Date: 10/22/2014 12:44:00 PM
Gears and mechanisms have always fascinated me. The grandfather clock is our closest imitation to clock of the sun and moon. An endearing and contemplative piece of writing, Bob! May he remain a'ticking :)
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Date: 9/1/2014 9:10:00 AM
I love these clocks, especially the ones that go back farther than just grandfather. My dad used to mend clocks in his spare time and I can remember how many different chimes echoed through the house. This brings back lovely memories. // paul
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Date: 8/30/2014 6:17:00 PM
Wow Robert, a tremendous piece that really "struck" a note. It is nice to have such a wonderful sense of history around you, especially such a special piece as your Grand Father Clock. And Robert, thank you for your insightful comment on my site. I've wailed for 6 years, and the year before that. But now it's like shooting fish in a barrel. Those fish barrels were filled to the rim and likewise. Take care and may God Bless!
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Date: 8/30/2014 3:45:00 PM
I'm sure when he TOKs you listen. I love the mechanical sound of watches and clocks. This was a delightful piece Robert.
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Date: 8/29/2014 11:30:00 PM
Dear Bob, You must be getting your "tune ups" as this is quite a delightfully nostalgic work. I love the way the "pendulum swing" reminds you that our time here is limited. Keep treasuring every moment, my friend. Love, Carolyn
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Date: 8/27/2014 9:49:00 AM
Bob H., I am proud to have read this poem. I can actually feel, the tone stuck on the 100 year walls. I wonder, what the stories would be like. A very enjoyable poem, the best one I've read so far this wonderful morning. Have a nice day...LINDA
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Date: 8/26/2014 10:13:00 PM
This is beautiful. I never owned a Grandfather's clock, but I love them and I always wanted one. Thanks for sharing your story... Lucilla
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Date: 8/26/2014 5:04:00 PM
And most certainly your light shines brightly throughout our poetic world. Light & Love
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Date: 8/25/2014 10:54:00 AM
Ahh!! Enjoyed reading your work..I am not fond of those clocks that chime in the night..When I was young, I could hear them tick-tock through the walls and it would keep me awake..Thanks for the visit to my page..I did make a type-o which is now corrected..I just had not taken time to check for errors..They can crop up..Sara
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Date: 8/23/2014 1:39:00 PM
Precious clock from a precious one :) Enjoyed, Bob. It's great to have something that belongs to your loved one!
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Date: 8/23/2014 1:34:00 PM
- A truly beautiful watch - there are not many of this quality today - I see it clearly ... I hear the ticking .... some love and oil is all it needs - Yeah, what if it could tell more than time - A really nice poem to read Bob !!! - A precious memory for you, from your grandfather. - I wish you a lovely weekend. - oxox // Anne-Lise :)
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