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
Copyright © | Year Posted 2009

Poem

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Brown Avatar
April 8, 2011 at 11:28 AM
I am stopping by today to thank you so much for your kind comments and to let you know I enjoy reading your poetry Robert. I hope you have a wonderful weekend full of inspiration. Love, Carol
Kendrick Avatar
December 27, 2009 at 12:24 PM
Robert, this was very touching especially after the sermon of this morning. He preached about does our flame need to be rekindled. I would like your permission for my husband to read it at church tonight. Thanks for stopping by and commenting on my work. Sara
Devonshire Avatar
December 17, 2009 at 9:10 AM
It's very inspiring the way you compare our past experiences throughout life to these museums, Robert. I try to keep the "vibrant life daily flowing" and your poem reminds me how important as this. Florida has a good historical preservation program and there are many historical homes such as the ones you describe here. Upon entering them, we are transported to another place and time. It's a magical feeling. Excellent poem! Love and Christmas blessings, Carolyn
Brown Avatar
December 16, 2009 at 3:56 PM
Thank you for sharing your amazing poetry with us today Robert. Thank you for your kind comments. Love, Carol
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