The Graces of a Little Place

We were always close together As the house we had was small. Family meals there knit a tether, And precious voices filled the halls. The dog was in and out of course And she surely didn’t mind To steal away the peace by force As willing actors were in line. We attended to each other then Without attention to a phone We laughed and loved back when No one really was alone. When one hurt, the family knew We learned to “sense” each other’s mood. When filled with joy or sometimes blue Our little house let grace give room. Empathy was tutored there Along with patience and resolve. There was little space to spare As every inch was shared by all. Familiar creaks and squeaky floors, Pillow wars and popcorn nights. Kids roamed everywhere outdoors And made it home by dinner time. We’re spread out now by the miles I miss their presence and the nearness. I miss my parents, meals and smiles And count the blessings that were near us.