Beans and Rice

Beans and Rice  

My Dad was not a rich man                                                                                                                                                   He was not a man of means.                                                                                                                                                   But my mom was a magician                                                                                                                                             When it came to rice and Beans.

You start early in the morning                                                                                                                                            It’s the only way to go.                                                                                                                                                         With beans and water in the pot                                                                                                                                         You cook them nice and slow.

When the wind blows cold in winter                                                                                                                                          And the puddles turn to ice.                                                                                                                                                 You haul out the big iron pot,                                                                                                                                                 And cook the Beans and rice.

Lots of chili powder                                                                                                                                                                     A little of Garlic too.                                                                                                                                                                  A ham-bone or some sausage                                                                                                                                                   A bit of fat to chew.

By evening they are ready                                                                                                                                                         The sauce is thick and red.                                                                                                                                                   If you really want to do it                                                                                                                                                      Add some sweet corn bread.

For days past I am longing                                                                                                                                               Not for Taco Bell.                                                                                                                                                                       For the warm light of that kitchen                                                                                                                                     And the love we knew so well.

For Beans on the stove a-simmering                                                                                                                          Muddy shoes upon the stairs.                                                                                                                                               A cold west wind a-blowing                                                                                                                                                And the warmth of Momma’s prayers.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2019

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Amadore Avatar
August 29, 2019 at 11:52 PM
Your poem brought back memories and made my mouth water...I still would prefer such a meal to almost any other, and your poem celebrates and does not demean that humble repast...thank you!
Merryman Avatar
August 29, 2019 at 8:29 PM
This was a delight to read, Wanda! I grew up eating a lot of beans and cornbread, so this brought back some good memories! Blessings, Kim
Daugherty Avatar
August 29, 2019 at 10:57 PM
Thank you, I am glad you enjoyed it!
Wolf Avatar
August 29, 2019 at 7:34 PM
Ooooh! Nice nostalgia, Wanda! Can't wait for winter now! :) gw
Daugherty Avatar
August 29, 2019 at 10:58 PM
Thank you! I am Glad you liked it! We enjoy poems about food!
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