I hear the sound of laughter as,
It echoes along the empty halls,
I can see still faded imprints of,
Little hands upon the aging walls.

Wind blows through a pane less window,
Spider webs tangle on overgrown vines,
A stool sits empty in a once busy room,
Beckoning to me in the dim sunshine.

Once upon a time there was such,
Happiness in these forsaken rooms,
Fragrance from vases of wildflowers,
All in bright and colorful blooms.

Through all the years since I lived there,
Memories return to draw me near,
The wind brings whispers of family,
Words of love from ones so dear.

Beloved Children, Mom and Dad,
Filled each nook with lots of love,
Always keeping foremost in thought,
The Creator and Father up above.

Working in the fields long hours,
Resting when given the chance,
Answering a neighbor's call for help,
Being a good neighbor was enhanced.

Once upon a time I was a youngster,
Living in this now forsaken place,
Running around in happy play with,
Several siblings sharing in the chase.

I remember bringing in wood for,
The old wood heater and stove,
Mother would spend hours cooking,
Aroma filled her small alcove.

Bible time around the wood heater,
Prayer time especially at night,
Giving problems to the Lord,
We knew He would make things right.

Sweet were the days many years ago,
My mind often wanders back there,
To a family eking out a living,
We relied on God knowing He cared.

©Gayle Davis
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