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Jeff Chivers
I'm not much into poetry, but years ago I came across this touching piece and have made a point of reading it on Pioneer Day each year. A poignant reminder of the human side of the many untold stories and sacrifices of our forbearers, whomever they may be . . .
PARTING ON THE PRAIRIE
The clouds hang low above this fallow plain,
How icy-fingered was the wind at dawn –
Good Captain, snow will fall before night,
Yet wait a little while to say “Move on.”
Apart she stands beside the new-made mound,
Her eyes burned with grief, she does not heed
The strong man’s arm about her waist –
Bowed by her sorrow as a storm bent reed.
The boy was life and laughter at her side,
Finding the trail adventure day-on-day.
How much the freckled face, the clear blue eyes
Could give her courage on the toilsome way.
This morn his singing lips are mute and cold –
And she must leave him in this barren land,
He who loved beauty, greening blade and tree –
The feel of crystal water on his hand.
Her cart will hold a torn-brimmed hat, a knife,
A wood-carved horse, a little treasure sack.
These she must keep, though each will tear her heart –
And ever will her eyes be looking back.
The winds of morn are threatening and chill,
But let her stay a little longer there.
She cannot come again to bring a flower,
Or meditate beside his lonely bier.
The handcart train will travel on its way,
While here, the wolves roam, the coyotes cry –
She shall push along through lone, heartbreaking days –
But wait a little – let her say good-bye.
Sylvia Probst Young
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Did anyone else listen to Linkin Park. RIP Chester Bennington.
