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PROMISE TO REMEMBER

My aged head lifts and turns toward the hall; Could it be that someone is paying a call? Footsteps draw near - Hope stirs anew. Who could it be? Friends left are so few. A strand of loose hair is tucked quickly in place, My dress smoothed out; steps slow in pace. A woman comes in, the room fills with perfume. "Oh, I'm so sorry - I have the wrong room." "Miss Stone - do you know her?" "Yes, Dear, in room 4." Slightly embarrassed she goes out the door. My tired heart aches. Hands grip the chair. The clock seems to tick, "no one to care." Christmas and Easter people come through, Distributing gifts - handmade and new. Then, soon forgotten until the next year, No one remembers that I reside here. Patients pass on - a daughter or son Say in the halls, "I meant to come." Dear God, Dear God - Please let it be That one will remember to come visit me! Submitted by Otis Rainwater

SISTER

These words will not do justice for what I want to say to you;

You've been there for me all my life with the little things you do.

The love you showed when I was a child through many a scrape and blister.

I took it all for granted because you were my sister.

As years passed by, and both of us grew a little older,

With trials to endure, you were always there to offer me your shoulder.

Many miles are now between us, and our visits are just a few,

But the cards and calls keep coming; I expect that much from you.

Through all my life's adversities you've helped through every one.

I feel less like I'm your brother, and more like I'm your son.

Gray hairs are growing abundant, and now I'm called "Sir" or "Mister."

I wish everyone had someone like you that they could call their Sister.

by Lonnie Budro

CHILD-LIKE FAITH

Jesus loves me, this I know For the Bible tells me so. Little kids ask nothing more, His love is what they're looking for. Our faith in where the ages lie, Is right there shining in their eyes. A faith to stand, a faith to fall, A faith that God will catch them all. by Katrina Edwards