Heritage

The carpet was worn - The pattern thin in some places, But it was a “good” rug, A real original Oriental. We had others, too, and a Silver tea service, slightly tarnished, (Sterling, of course) On the mahogany sideboard. The upholstery on the Living room chairs Was a little tired, but It was good “quality” furniture. And we were descended from Someone who came over To this country on the Mayflower! Mantras I heard many times When I was growing up In a “good” neighborhood My parents could ill afford. Mantras offered when I complained That my friends had new furniture Or prettier rugs, or, even worse, Wall to wall carpeting. No penny loafers for me – I had a serviceable pair of shoes. The “new” skirt was handed down From a neighbor’s daughter. Store clothes were from sales And always “practical”. Only years later did I finally Realize my mother was making The best of the hard times And gave up much for us. It was her way of trying To make us proud of ourselves And our heritage, to make up For the things she couldn’t give us.