Two Little Boxes Part 2

A wedding ring and locket
Were the only things inside
Two pictures in the locket
Of a husband and his bride

Trembling hands replaced the gold
And re-tied all the strings
Everyone felt guilty
As they viewed these precious things

The second box held letters
Written by a soldiers hand
Post-marked 1995
From a distant desert land

Also there, another note
From U.S. government
Expressing deepest sorrow
And concern for her lament

Everyone now understood
How Marys life was frayed
Her only son was lost to war
And husband passed away

Two tiny little boxes
Were her only claim to life
The consumate devotion
Of a mother and a wife

When there was nothing left to have
That's when she came to stay
Enjoying every hour there
Until she passed away

So pray for Mary in your thoughts
And know she's not alone
She's bathed in precious glory
As she's finally made it home


Rockman
Copyright © | Year Posted 2011

Poem

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Young Avatar
November 10, 2013 at 2:14 PM
I came to this poem after reading your comments on Karens poem. You portrayed this story wonderfully. I have worked as an STNA for about ten yrs now. And Ive seen a lot of people pass without any family, Ive sat with many of them...they never go alone. It is a very taxing thing to do, but is also very rewarding...Im sure ur wife has told u that before. Very nice write :)
Pritts Avatar
November 10, 2013 at 11:05 PM
Thanks Gina. I live these peoples lives vicariously through my wife. She told me that story one day, but when she said, "two little boxes", a bell went off. I took her recount of what a co-worker told her and embellished on it. Neither me or my wife knew the woman or her name. But it was a story that had to be told.
Anglesey Avatar
October 18, 2013 at 8:13 PM
A stunning portrait of this beautiful woman who loved deeply and cared only for what was most important to her to the end. I admire your impeccable talent
Lefanue Avatar
May 11, 2012 at 3:49 AM
Brilliant, Randy! You certainly have what it takes. I finally found your email. You are definitely a song writer as well as a poet. I write love songs and gospel songs - Freely Forgive is one of my gospel songs. Have started to write the music scores as well. You should be a famous country and western singer with your song writing ability and your background in a rock band. Cheers, Maureen
Salama  Avatar
April 11, 2012 at 7:33 PM
Your storytelling and your rhythm are superb! You achieved perfection here. Your poems are truly exceptional! Samia :)
Fahey Avatar
April 19, 2011 at 6:49 PM
Sooooo beautiful. I can't help but think that out there somewhere is someone like Mary, whose lost a husband, and a child to war. Love the way it ends, though.....ahhh, Heaven! Thank you for sharing! I'm keepin' my eye on you! Ellen <3
Hendricks Avatar
April 15, 2011 at 3:43 AM
Even better than the first part, Randy. A very enjoyable read. Hats off to you for sensitivity.
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