My Thoughts And Reflections 6n451s

My Thoughts and Reflections

Mary Earl

Copyright © 2013 by Mary Earl.

Library of Congress Control Number: 2013915935 ISBN: Hardcover 978-1-4836-9356-9 Softcover 978-1-4836-9355-2 Ebook 978-1-4836-9357-6

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Rev. date: 09/10/2013

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CONTENTS

Name the Same Blizzard of ’78

My thoughts and reflections… . These are all mine. Accumulating through a ing of time. For the meanings are there And meant to share. A precious gift, and yet not rare… . Came an answer, through a prayer.

He is there to guide me, I’m never alone. He is there beside me, wherever I go. He comforts me through my doubts and fears Unafraid of the oncoming years. He will lead me down the path of Life. I shall not falter, I know he’s there Beckoning to me, I’m truly aware. Watching over my children too… . Instilling in them, what they must do A fulfillment of dreams, to be met Accomplishing the goals, they have set Never to lose their faith, And trusting in their fellow man.

I used to think to myself… . Oh! How wonderful it would be. If only I could help someone, less fortunate than me. A doctor, a nurse, a chosen profession; Why that sounds great to me. But this takes talent, and dedication, And lots and lots of motivation. My thoughts were forgotten somewhere along the line, And I lost track of it until this very time. Again, I sit and think to myself… . What did you ever do? A part of my life is over now, But I don’t think it’s too late to start anew. Maybe, . . . . if I could, Start by sharing all my thoughts with you.

“It’s only for a little while.” These were the words he said. “It’s only for a little while, Now come on and give me a big smile.” How could she smile, her heart was breaking. It was her man that they were taking. “It won’t be that long, you’ll see.” “That time will go by very quickly.” She tried to be brave, she fought back the tears. But she could not fight back all of her fears. The thought that he might not ever come back, Was tearing her apart. She waited and prayed and kept up her faith. What else to do… she would just wait. Finally one day, a letter did come, But it was not the one. The one that she waited for, Never came to her door. As she opened it… . she knew, Her dreams would never, ever come true.

The secret to a happy marriage, Is just to be Honest in everything you do. Don’t try to bluff your way through. Last but not least, Don’t give him a reason to roam. Be waiting for him at home.

Are all families like mine? Something going on all the time. My husband is a musician, so naturally… We have the sounds of music constantly. There are times when I think to myself, I’m going crazy… or deaf, whichever comes first. Then at 3:00 my youngest comes home, On goes the T.V. The doorbell is ringing… The dog is barking… And now something else? Will you all shut up… And someone answer the phone.

To give a helping hand Is not hard to do. Just look around And you’ll find Someone who is waiting Just for you.

If I had but one wish, what would it be? Money, . . . power, . . . or perhaps authority. None of these would appeal to me. For I would wish, for much more than that, You see. I would wish for comion… understanding… And love for our fellow man. Wouldn’t that be grand? To be able to walk side by side, Caring for one another. What a wonderful thing this would be. To be able to live in perfect harmony.

I’ll sit at my piano, make up a song. Sometime I can almost hear the words to go along. Before I realize it, I’m all wrapped up and carried away. The more I play it, the better the sound, And euphoria lifts me off the ground. Then in amazement, I’ll sit silently. Wondering why or how it came to me. A number of days have gone by since then. I’ll go to the piano, and once again, In desperation, try as I may, I find that I spent the entire day. Strange as it seems, it’s like a dream. I can’t the song at all. If I should be inspired again to write another song, I’ll have my recorder beside me, But this time I’ll turn it on.

Don’t be afraid of tomorrow, And what it might bring. Life’s not always filled with sorrow, It’s filled with beautiful things. The most beautiful time of the year Is the early morning Spring. Looking out the window I see The yellow daffodil opening up just for me. The wondrous red bird all aglow, Sitting on the branch and ready to go. These beautiful things are sent to us From Heaven above with love… .

Patience is a virtue, I’ve heard tell Waiting for a taxi on a rainy day. To standing in line for a special show, Then finding a SOLD OUT sign in the ticket window. The trials and tribulations of daily routines, At times may seem like endless bad dreams. Tempers flare; sometimes we’re not even aware. It just seems the thing to do, Taking out your frustrations on someone that’s closest to you… Be patient with others, slow down the pace, Life doesn’t have to be a rat race. You’ll find your efforts, worthwhile. You might even begin to smile.

We almost made 25 years, you and I. We almost made it, but now I cry. Whatever happened, when did it start? You were always in my heart. I did the things you wanted me to. I was always there, just for you. I was your lover, and your wife. What more could I do to prove my love for you? This wound that I feel will not heal. My love for you is still too real.

A true friend is a rare find indeed. Someone to be with, when you are in need. Someone who is willing to cancel his plans for the day. Just to accommodate you, in some little way. Someone who runs, whenever you call. Whether or not you really needed him at all. If you have a friend like this… Appreciate him, because he’s good and he’s kind. His kinds of qualities are hard to find. He is worth more than words can ever say. Don’t ever let him slip away.

A card came in the mail today. It really helped to make my day. A Christmas card and “thank you” combined in one. Expressing appreciation for all we had done. We had given him a home, Treated him as our own. Guided him, when he needed it most. It’s such a good feeling to know that We helped this young boy to grow Into the fine young man he is today. Taking his rightful place in our society.

God loves you, show Him you care. Always to say your prayer. Offer to help mother, take care of little Brother. Don’t be afraid at night. God sends his angels to watch over you. Listen to mother and be good, Help her the way you should. Offer to help your teacher in school. This is a very good rule. Vacation time is getting near. We would love to have you spend it here. Every day that we’re apart You’re always in our hearts. Start each day with a big smile, Everything will be worthwhile. You are very special to us. Always keep your faith and trust. Obey your mother for she knows what is best. God is standing by to do the rest.

Use your brains God gave to you. Do your very best in the things you do.

Don’t try to be something you’re not. A phony person is easy to spot. He usually has the biggest mouth. Bragging is what he is all about. He has a problem… . he is insecure. An audience is what he needs… . That’s for sure. Why can’t someone tell him? Instead of laughing behind his back. He needs a friend who will sit down With him and spell it out.

Why am I so sensitive? What can it be? And why can’t he stop teasing me? I suppose I should be used to it. I’ve had it all my life. It starts out innocently And ends up in a fight. Then in anger I’ll say, “Stop it” and Try to get away. Before I get mad… take my fists and Really let him have it. What’s the matter with you? Can’t you take a joke anymore? I was only teasing… you know that. Where is your sense of humor at? So I’ll forgive him once more, as he Goes off to work and out the door.

There’s a reason for everything. A reason for living, a reason for dying. Sometimes we sit and wonder why. Why did this happen to me? What did I do to deserve this? I’ve done something And now I’m paying the price. We feel like this, sometimes, it’s true. But this is not the thing to do. Instead count your blessings and you will see Someone who is worse off than you or me.

Name the Same

Have you ever looked into a book, And had to take a second look? Not believing what you had seen Was it just a crazy dream? While seated at my piano one day A beautiful waltz I started to play. As I finished the song with a sigh Something very strange caught my eye. Someone with the same name as mine Had written this song, this was fine. I’ll fool my friends, see if I can I’ve always wanted to be a Thespian. But I wasn’t content being a fake I had to find out, for my own sake. What I found out, really floored me Because you see… she was a he And he was not the she He had claimed to be. It was a pen name you see. Now my bubble had burst

I couldn’t have felt worse. I had hoped to see Her name listed in our family tree.

What makes you so mean today? Why do you yell so much? You’ve been an old bear, since you got here. Don’t take it out on us! I know you’re tired… . I’m tired too. If we matched hours, I’ve put in more than you. “It’s a jungle out there,” he said “Just go out and see.” Well if it’s a jungle out there… . Then it won’t be too hard for me. For I feel like a lion, being cooped up here. At least out there, there’s room to spare.

Contentment comes from within. Sometimes it’s hard to find. We are so bottled up within ourselves, And can’t find peace of mind. We all need that extra push, From someone or thing, that’s true. That’s why dear God, I pray and turn to you.

It’s hard to say “I’m sorry” . . . Sometimes it’s difficult to do. But this my friend… It will help you too.

It’s better to give than to receive. This old adage I do believe! What more of a gift could there be than Stockings hanging on a tree, Filled full of toys for poor little Girls and boys? This is a marvelous sight to see, Try it sometime and I’m sure you’ll agree.

The poor old man stood all alone, Waiting for a ride. His clothes were old and wrinkled, And not very warm inside. His eyes were sad and very drawn, My heart went out to this old man, And I thought, “What an unfortunate sight.” If only I could help out somehow, It would be to my delight. As I walked by, I looked around, And dropped a bill to the ground. His eye caught it and soon, He came after me. “Did you lose that?” . . . . “No sire.” His face lit up and I could see, How happy it made him and ME.

While writing out my cards one day, I came across your name. I thought to myself, it’s been such a long time, What a shame. It’s another disgrace to a face, and then Forget their name. I’ll take a few minutes out of my day And call her on the phone. Tomorrow for sure, between 3:30 and 4:00. Oh darn! I forgot my dentist appointment at 4:00. Oh well… . come what may. I’ll call her another day.

If only for a moment, I could see your face. To touch and feel your warm embrace. To know you are beside me is a comfort too, To help me out in everything I do. I promise not to cry, As long as I can feel your presence nearby.

Make everyday count, don’t let them . For you never know, this could be the last. Do everything you can, see everything too. Live life to the fullest, in everything you do. Tomorrow might not come for you.

Don’t mind your neighbors business They can manage alone. Don’t look for skeletons in their closets, You may have some of your own. Don’t bend your ear, just to hear Juicy gossip about them. For you never know, the tables may turn And you may end up as being the worm. So when the gossipers come to call Don’t answer the door at all. Let them find someone else To listen to their dirt. If you’re not involved, You won’t get hurt.

You don’t have to have a fortune To feel like a millionaire. Just knowing there’s someone who loves you Is worth all the millions out there. For love is not bought with money, It’s something you cannot buy. Don’t waste your time and fortunes To even begin to try.

Thank you God for this day And for all the others You have sent my way. Patiently, I will wait and see What tomorrow will bring to me. From birth, happiness, sorrow or pain… This is Life and Love will remain.

She’s been like a sister to me, this certain Friend of mine. Her door is always open, that’s because she’s Just that kind. She’ll always spare a few minutes, this means A lot to me. To be able to know where to go, when you’re Down and low. She has sadness in her own life. But she doesn’t complain… . she’s one of a few. She keeps on going, even when going on is Tough to do.

How many times has there been, When we’ve had to make a big decision. We have to face it, we can’t run and hide. If we only knew for sure What is the right thing to do. Then we think back to when we were young, And the decisions were made for us. How simple our lives were then… No responsibilities, worries or fuss. You can’t turn back the clock of time. That’s something that can’t be done. Just turn to God, he’ll listen to you. He will help you to make the right one.

When I’m asked what my occupation is. I have to stop and think. I’m a housewife, a chauffeur, a bookkeeper, And part time referee. I keep house for my family. I drive the kids to school… . and for appointments too. The books I balance are my own And I try not to be overdrawn. The refereeing I do is usually between my Two kids who fight. Sometimes it’s like an arena around here at night. Then my husband will come home and say… “What do you do all day?” I’ll answer casually… . I cleaned the house, did some washing, went to the Grocery store, had my dentist appointment at four. Came home, made supper, did the dishes, fed the dog, And now I have to take the garbage out. Then I wonder if he really heard me, because he’ll say, “Did you get the dry cleaning today?”

“My good pants were ready at 3:00… you know that meeting is tonight. It’s important that my pants are cleaned and pressed, I like to look my very best” Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not complaining but there Are times that it does get aggravating.

A hotline to God I have at home. I just call him on the telephone. Let’s see, I dial 463… Just 3 numbers, is all. I tried it, to see… Or were my own thoughts just fooling me. A busy signal I did get. Then I ed what day this was. December 24th . . . He’s calling everyone to tell them not to forget. It’s His son’s birthday.

Happy Birthday, Jesus!

When I needed someone to listen. When I needed someone to care. I could always depend on you. You were always there. You were my inspiration. You were always my reservation. Then one day you went away, never more to return. The angels came for you, my Mother. There will never be another.

A Mother’s work is never done. She goes all day and then some. She gets the kids up… makes breakfast, And their lunches too. That’s not all… she still has much more to do. Now hurry up, brush your teeth, and don’t be late. It’s almost eight… that bus won’t wait. Now as she closes the door, she sighs with relief, And a smile comes over her face. She reflects back to another time, Another place. When she herself was very young and also Going to school. The hustle and bustle that she put her Mom through, My Mom lived through it and I guess I will too.

How can I thank you for the many things you’ve done? It’s been so long since we became one. I guess I’ve taken for granted everything you do. I’ve taken for granted… . even you. Forgive me if you can. I know I couldn’t find a better man. A truer one I couldn’t find… . to be mine.

What’s in a marriage, he asked me? What’s in a marriage that’s something I can’t see. It’s a piece of paper, that’s all it is. It’ll put a noose around my neck, Oh heck! And I’m not ready for that… . not yet. We can still share our lives together, And have our good times, that is true. And you’ll never be blue, I can promise you. The more he opened his mouth, I could see. This big jerk making a fool of me. I opened the door and asked him to leave. For I knew he was not the man I was looking for. He was just another, out to score.

“Hi Dear: Have you got a minute to spare? There’s something bothering me. A minute, just one minute. “I promise then I’ll let you go.” If only I had listened, if only I had cared. And taken the time to go there. I have always taken time before… But today I was so busy, I didn’t have the time To spare. “I’m sorry,” I said. “I’m really busy, I have so much work to do, I’ll never get through. I’ll call you tomorrow, we’ll talk some then.” The many times I had called her in the past. I never thought that this would be my last.

“Have a good day,” she said to me. And I thought… what on earth does she mean? I haven’t had a good day for so long. It’s like an old familiar song. That night as I lay in bed, I thought about what she had said. Just that quick it came to me, And I began to see. It was just words, but the thought was there. A good thought, I might add. She was concerned, for she knew all the trouble I had had.

How many times has there been, That you go to bed to sleep. The bodies tired and all your bones ache. And there you are… Still awake. Oh God! Help me to unwind. The things that happen today, I will file away. Tomorrow is another day.

God give me the strength, so that I might bear, All of the pressures that are hidden there. Just put your hand on my shoulder, So I will be just a little bit bolder. To go on and do the things I must, With your guiding hand and trust.

There comes a time in all of our lives, When we must say good bye… To that special person for whom we cry. The loving and caring and sharing together, Will help us to go on forever and ever.

Start each day with a prayer, And surely you will find. That certain kind of something, That leads to peace of mind. So often times we think—why try, It doesn’t get any better. But giving up is not the thing to do. Hang in there and you can see it through.

As I sit alone in my lonely room. I think of the many years gone by. The loneliness I feel is chewing away at me, And I begin to cry. I’m trying so hard to be strong. I’ve overcome this feeling before… . But today I need so much more. I need someone to talk to, I need someone to care, If only you would That I am still here.

“Honey” is her name. Playing is her game. Perhaps I should explain. My dog’s name is “Honey” And she’s as sweet As her name. But all she thinks of is fun and games. She’s such a tiny thing. How can she do so much harm? If she doesn’t grow out of this, She’ll end up on someone’s farm. But “Honey” is just “Honey”, and she’ll always be, Looking for excitement wherever it may be.

Have you ever gone to bed at night and Found you couldn’t sleep? You’re so desperate you even try counting sheep. Then you ed what it was That you forgot to do. You didn’t talk to God today. You didn’t say your prayers. You’ll be surprised how fast it will be, Before you drift off to sleep. You’ll never have to count the Sheep again… . But if you do, I’ll bet you wont Get past ten.

Dear God, I thought I would drop you a line. To tell you that I’m feeling fine. But I don’t have to tell you that. You already know… . for you’re there, up above. Looking down on us below. Today I have a special favor to ask of you. Please, God, hear me through. The person I have in mind is slowing dying inside. She is a wife who is sitting by her husband’s bedside, keeping vigil. There’s nothing more, they say, they can do. So God it’s all up to you. If his time is here, please set him free. And let him go to his eternity. I’m asking for strength for her, for she must go on. The pain that she is bearing comes from the love she is sharing. Now I must go, for I have much to do. I’ll write again, someday soon. Love, Mary

“You’re weird,” he said to me, “in everything you do. I just don’t know, something’s come over you. For some strange reason you’re not the same. It’s like we’re playing a waiting game. It’s like you’re possessed, like if something is on your mind. You never have time for me. Is there a time clock you’re trying to beat? A deadline that you must meet?” Maybe he’s right. He’s been in the past. Whatever it is, I tell you that I will sur. I feel a need to succeed in something… anything. Like as though something is trying to come out of me. A drive that I can’t explain… even to myself. It’s like there is something there… begging to be free. Release me… . for there’s much to do. Could it be there is a talent hidden deep inside of me? A part of me that even I don’t know is now ready to go. Don’t stop now, you’re almost there. I have reservation for our destination. If we’re a little late, they’ll wait…

Of this I am sure.

“I’ll make reservations for the 10 o’clock flight tonight,” he said. It will be perfect, just wait and see. I can sneak away, okay? I’ll show you something you’ve never seen before. Something you’ll never forget. The excitement, lights, music, gambling, And most of all you and I together, all alone… . No one will bother us, no one would know. You’re over 21. Oh come on! Let’s go! He painted a great picture, and I found a part of me really wanting to go. My heart said, “Yes” but my head said, “No.” He’s probably no different than all the rest. I wouldn’t be surprised if he had a wife with kids and his own little nest. My family and friends… what would they think? They love and respect me… and sometimes protect me. So I said to him politely… “Thanks for your invitation… I’m flattered, really I am. But I’ll wait and go with a husband someday on our honeymoon.”

Maude was her name. A kinder soul you could not meet. She lived by me, across the street. She was a widow, her husband had died. Her children were grown and she lived all alone. She had a small pension, which wasn’t much, But she would never complain or fuss. She had a gift of love for people and it was genuine. People came to her to ask advice, On this or that ailment… . Which is wrong and which is right? “My head is pounding today, could you come over right away?” She would stop and take the time to help someone and make them fine. Her medicine was her own… 1 cup caring 1 cup sharing And of course ½ tsp. of peppermint oil Combine all ingredients above, sprinkle with a little love. “Now just you rest and I’ll guarantee, That tomorrow you’ll be… .

Fit as a fiddle and raring to go.” Tomorrow came, and sure enough. She really knew her stuff.

When I need a favor, I know who to call. He’s right there ready to do anything he can for you. As tall as he is, with his heart just as big. A nicer man you’ll never find. He’s had his share of sadness. He’s had his share of pain. But despite it all, he’ll never complain. When things don’t go right, he’ll shrug his big shoulders and say, “Oh well” . . . . He’s something pretty special this tall man. Get to know him, if you can.

Are there times in your life, When you get restless at home, Tired and bored with it all? Then you look in the mirror, and you see… You’re not as young as you use to be, And neither is your wife. Instead of feeling sorry for yourself, Because the gray is showing in your hair… The wrinkles appear and you know how old age is near. Get down on your knees And thank God for what you still have. Your life, your love, and your home.

“Thanks God!” she said, As she popped into bed. I just don’t know what I would do, If I couldn’t turn to you. The scare that I had, is still so real. I’ll never forget that ordeal. You heard the prayers that were said for me. My love for you will always be. “Thanks God!” AMEN.

Blizzard of ’78

How many card games can you play, through these long winters nights and days? I wish I could go to bed tonight and wake up to a morning sun that’s warm and bright. We’ve had our share of snow this year, if only Spring would soon appear. This Winter has been the worst I can . The January thaw, we didn’t have at all. It started snowing, will it ever stop? We kept on shoveling snow until we thought we would either out or drop. The kids were delighted to see the snow. Hip, hip, hooray… let it snow, let it blow! That evening the wind started up. It warmed up a bit, but only to bring on the rain… . It rained all night. By morning, it got cold and everything froze; the trees, the shrubs, and even my nose. It starting snowing once again, coming down so fast. The winds blew… the snow flew… and we knew it would last. “We’re having a blizzard, don’t leave your home!” The radio and T.V warned everyone not to roam. People were stranded in cars all over the place. And you couldn’t see smiles on any face. They couldn’t move, they couldn’t go; the blizzard had really taken its toll.

People came together and did what they could. To help one another as they always should. Sometimes it takes a crisis like this one, to open up your eyes. To prove that people need people to bring on strong ties. We will long that date… THE TERRIBLE BLIZZARD OF ’78.

If you’re told you are a dreamer, Don’t take offense. Consider the source, and how it was meant. A dreamer doesn’t always sit and dream all day. Wishful thinking; Dreaming his life away. He has something definitely on his mind. A whole new life style, he just might find.

Why can’t we take advice In the way that it was meant? With good intentions, instead of resent. Think about it, for just a moment or two. Don’t jump to conclusions Cause that’s easy to do. Take advice when given to you. Then you will know and realize No one meant to criticize.

Her talents are many, Her vices are few. There’s nothing that she really can’t do. As a cook, she’s a gourmet; excelling in Fancy desserts and tempting entrees. She’s a multitude of talents, All rolled into one. She paints, sews, crochets, and knits, And even quilts a bit. I never know what to expect, Or what she might be doing next. From making Christmas candles in her nook, To drawing illustrations for a book.

The friends they had before, Don’t come over anymore. This lonely young woman is all alone. Her husband died, her son is grown. She says she’s a “misfit” and doesn’t Belong… . anywhere. What can I say… . she’s right in a way. Her life is not the same as it was. But she does need her friends More than ever now. The lonely hours she spends alone. Are depressing to her, I know. A call from another old friend today, Would make a difference in her day. It might be as good as the medicine, She must take for the rest of her days. Perhaps a form of therapy… You might say.

Thoughts