Headliines of a Child
Events embedded in my mind—from the decade of 6-0,
Return to me as vivid now, as they were long ago.
I went to bed afraid at night, fearing missiles from the south.
Ears ringing from the bearded man, words of fire from his mouth.
We were sent to recess early, one cold November day.
I saw my teacher crying, at what Cronkite had to say.
The news crackled through the speaker, that was mounted on our wall.
We all remained so silent, as we filed into the hall.
Into our living rooms they came, the four of them that night.
There`s no way you could hear them, but were thrilled with just the sight.
Who ever would have known right then what headlines they`d create?
That the joy they brought to us was not a temporary state.
As teens we saw the “Shindig”, take its parting farewell ride.
And were saddened at the news that Lucy`s thrifty landlord died.
Then Hoover told the public that Lee Harvey was alone.
True Grit and Midnight Cowboy clenched the big screen movie`s throne.
Confusion reigned inside my mind about the raging war.
Thousands of our young men left, unsure about the score.
My mind told me if Uncle Sam sent our boys off to fight,
Then that`s the way it had to be, for weren`t they always right?
Lulu sang to Sidney, songs of undying affection.
The hills alive with Julie— we witnessed pure perfection.
Neil Armstrong took one giant step for man, upon the moon.
The songs over the rainbow ceased, that year, the end of June.
Memories like these inside my mind, are carved, so not to die.
A Boomer`s recollection—more than Hollywood could supply.
It`s comforting to reminisce about the times gone past.
And now I see, as an adult, they went by all too fast.
Copyright © Christy Mcmillan | Year Posted 2010
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