Hallowed Ground

BY CAROLE NICHOLS


We looked, but did I make you see,
What I was seeing with my mind;
The fence, a sentry that shouldn't be,
To venture in, what would I find?

I guess you saw the yearning in my eyes,
For you looked and found a way;
You took my hand and led me back
To the hallowed grounds of yesterday.


And I saw once more the amyrillos,
Fragrant and thick, lining the drive;
I could hear old Spot a-barking,
Announcing to all we had arrived.


As we stood near the water's edge,
The docks and ramps faded from sight,
Till, there, once more, was my beach;
Peace came upon me, it felt so right


I felt the presence of all who loved,
Grew and learned in this enchanted place;
Was if time may have stopped here,
Although human hands had changed it's face.


The house behind us stood empty,
But still it called to the child of my heart;
You smiled and said, "You can go home",
I felt tears of happiness start.


Maybe it was magic, I don't know;
You turned the knob and opened the door,
We entered the home of my childhood;
I walked the sacred halls once more.


The floor was that same old floor,
That bare, wet feet once ran upon;
The house was empty, yet it was full,
Of memories I thought long gone.


I saw my grandfather sitting there,
His beloved dog at his side;
Telling stories of his times gone by,
As he touched our heads with loving pride.


The child in me wanted to stay,
But I knew my time in this place was gone;
It's time for someone else to grow here,
But I know I won't leave all alone.


We stood outside the fence once more,
Committing to memory and saying goodbye;
I knew I could come back anytime I want,
I'll just close my eyes and let my mind fly.