Back when time seemed to stand still
we kids yearned for a faster pace
chasing horses, pigs, cows sheep out at will
running bare foot, break neck race
Daddy would sit on us picking out a sticker
not letting out a cry or wiggling from him
while we sought escaping to the swing of wicker
yet, dreamed of not working around a limb
We just wanted to be kids, without cockle burs,
wishing the mean rooster to far off parts
so we didn't have to take his spurs
nor worry about milking time tail swats
We had in mind, building dams in the creek
playing baseball, football or basketball, right!
with neighborhood kids, we would seek
instead of cooking sewing, canning and the like.
I remember the days so bitter, a switch hurt
Or mouth soaped out, and nose in a corner
Pitting the boys to fight, as Mama was curt
I ran away all the way to Florida, a mourner.
But, we thrived, tan, long legged, healthy
Band, piano, and lacy dresses were fitting
bellbottoms, long hair, and the wealthy
attentive boys seemed to be left right hitting
Mama wouldn't let me date until 16, nor choose
anything or anybody I wanted in my life
I saved up baby sitting money, left this muse
I took off to get away from the traumatic strife
The ocean was for me, sand and sun
pets I adored, hammock and love
going from tan to tanner, finding a hon
hearing Jesus from way above.
I had to learn the hard way, Him calling me
Telling me to follow Him, the light house, now
I pondered the meaning watching the sea
as the ships navigated the windy bay and how
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