She wanted to speak, but the words wouldn’t come.
They stuck in her mind like pavement to gum.
Release me, release me the words cried today.
I’m afraid, she said, as she held them at bay.
We will be heard, they told her with force.
She shook her head to quiet their source.
They rattled around in the core of her brain,
But got up again and began to raise Cain.
Leave me alone, she shouted out loud.
They mocked her and told her they came in a crowd.
So even if caught and turned out to sea,
Others would come and one day be free.
It must be the holidays because I’ve just written a poem with the same meter as ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. Good Lord.
My usually introspective self typically becomes more reflective during the holiday season, and I believe this poem officially crosses the line to brooding. However, Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday of the year, and Teresa and I once again look forward to making the trip to the Upstate to spend an evening with her family in the recreation hall of the First Baptist Church of Fingerville, South Carolina. Even if I didn’t love her family, I’d go to a Baptist Church with that name.
To everything there is a season, and this is the season for being thankful before the madness that is Christmas and New Year’s Day overwhelms us. My wish for each of you is the familiar admonition to count your blessings and name them one by one. And if there are words you want or need to say to someone, set them free.
From our family to yours – have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!
I'll Call It Like I See It 
A Baptist church named Fingerville. That joke just writes itself almost, huh? Hope your family has a fantastic Thanksgiving.
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Honestly, I can’t make it up – I’m not that clever! 🙂 I am thankful for you and your support of my words that do make it out! Happy Thanksgiving to you as well!
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Another good one, Sheila.
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Thanks so much, Bob – and I am most thankful for you and your encouragement over the past six years – I would have quit long ago without you!!
Happy Thanksgiving to you and Margaret and the boys and pups, too!!
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I think it’s something the November air that nurtures introspection. Maybe it’s the wood smoke, crisp air, bare bones trees – time to turn inward. I love the image of words stuck “like pavement to gum.”
Happy Thanksgiving and safe travels.
Love,
Ann
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Ann,
I think you are so right! I am reminded of the saying The hurrieder I go the behinder I get. That’s how I feel at the end of every year – and particularly the ones after 60!
You have much to look forward to!!
Feel better and avoid ticks like the plague!
love,
Sheila
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Sigh … I can’t wait! >:-(
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Don’t worry – you’ll come through them like a champ!!
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Wow Sheila Rae. Say it.
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I will, bumbobbin, and now that I have the correct email address, I will write it – to you. 🙂
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Sheila I always enjoy reading your words. Isn’t it interesting that sometimes in life we actually regret the words we didn’t let free more than the words we did? I am thankful we are family…I got all my sister and me. ….I digress. Wishing you and yours a blessed Thanksgiving. Love and hugs cousin!
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Hi Heather,
Yes, sometimes we miss the opportunities to speak our own truths – we never know if we’ll have another one. I am thankful for all of my Boring family – the connection and bond from my mother. I hope you all have a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving in Texas!!
I am also thankful for your words of encouragement on my blog – it means a lot to me!
Love to all,
Sheila
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