You Do Understand

You Don’t Understand I spoke quite angrily to her mother, As I examined Hannah, shook my head. “What were you thinking, taking her so far? You’re lucky that your daughter isn’t dead. I said, “She has acute appendicitis, Must operate on her without delay.” Her mom bending over, kissed her daughter And then to hide her tears, she turned away. “Doctor you don’t know the circumstances. Her daddy died when Hannah was but one. I had to work to take care of my daughter. This was to have been days of happy fun. Hannah has had to grow up fast you see. Perhaps too soon, she won’t have time for me.” ------------------------------------------------------- You Do Understand A whole week up in the lofty mountains, Breathing deeply of air so fresh and clear. Each day brings another grand adventure. We had looked forward to it through the year. Some of us are experienced riders. Some have not sat astride a horse before. Hannah of eleven years, is practiced And loves these mountain pathways to explore. This day is the last, the week is over. Our Hannah has awakened very ill. Her grandma and I try hard to soothe her, With Hannah throwing up our healing pill. But Hannah must still ride her gentle horse, Sixteen rough miles to camp, no other course.