Mama's Song

I wander through my journey, interspersed with joy and pain, always grateful Though not by choice, some days are somber; yet others follow with abundant joy In my solitude, memories come alive with the recall of some old song from another time When life was carefree in everyway! No worries and not one care! First heard as a child; the title now lost to me, so I’ll call it "Mama’s Song" It’d start off soft and slow; its rhythm smooth, graceful, incredibly beautiful! Then lingering on my mind, gently reviving memories lost somewhere in yesterday It’d calm my spirit, take me away- away from countless, mundane tasks All necessary things, but they arrest my days, imposing, threatening, vying for attention There’s a constant battle that rages within, and I often ask, “Should I lay down this burden of joyless pursuits which hinder valid expressions from my heart? Should I? And to what profit? Surely monetary gain is a necessity, but at what cost to my spirit?? Were I guardian only to myself, I’d simply choose to live lean somewhere by the sea I would cast my net for food, and barter for grain and herbs. However, the compass is set So, I escape in the melodies, with my eyes closed, and fly high, above this terrain Sailing on the massive wings of a Condor, unafraid; over rugged pathways and Jagged edges of mountains that rise above the seas, far away from this place of constant weariness, on my way to a place more tranquil, somewhere in yesterday I hover over rivers that give life to green valleys below, quite an amazing view to see! Like black velvet ribbons they meander through the changing landscape At an angle they shimmer like fine crystal in the afternoon sun, and in one breath, I am there! At Mama’s feet, studying her as she sews dresses for my sisters and me I watch, I listen to her, softly singing; feel her contentment and peace through the song Never complaining, never too tired to go beyond the call, to love and care for family Teaching by example, using less words, her quiet spirit, ever steadfast, strong Those times when I feel I can not go on, when afraid I'll falter, I still hear the the melody and "Mama's Song"! Note: For Mama - Thank you for putting us first! For the many lessons learned which we nowteach our children. RIP w/Papa!!