Mansions and Museums'

Several Mansions exist in the town wherein I reside, Built decades ago, with craftsmanship and great pride; Filled with rooms and carpeted stairs, They were a marvelous domicile for the family living there. Now they've been partitioned and divided many times, Yet one can still see their beautiful, architectural lines. Families that own them live there day to day, And the various rooms give kids many places to play. Wallpaper gets scratched; woodwork marred in use; The building shows activity with no concept of abuse. People freely flow in and out, all the day long. And it is their safe haven when they return home. I know of several other buildings too, Where things once used are now placed on public view. The building may be elegant like those described above, But all the artifacts are handled with kids gloves' These places are known as historical museums; You are charged admission if you desire to see them. Articles displayed in glass cases: you may look but don't touch' Historic value must be protected with alarms and such. These past trophies cannot be utilized today; They've lost their effectiveness- except items on display. A museum closes with the approach of night. Padlocks and vaults shield these things from sight. Does your Christian walk contain things once used? Or is vibrant life daily flowing out of you? Do you live in a way that makes others inspired. Or must you refer to past achievements that you want admired? Art Ball (H.S.L.P.) april 23, 2006