Poet's Platform Column | 27 April 06 by Janet Nesler | The Scioto Voice | Wheelersburg, Ohio

CURIOUS MR. OWL Wise Mr. Owl sat upin a tree He blinked his eyes, shook his head, And tome he said, “I am curious about the building that I see I can watch people, butthey cannot see me.” Isee people, some are short and some are tall, Some are large and some are small, Some are white and some are black, But they all keep coming back. Some are women and some are men, Sometimes there is one or two, Sometimes eight or ten. Sometimes I hear music and a clapping of hands, Sometimes it sounds like an Old Timers Band. Late in the evening I sometimes hear, Chase a rabbit, Chase a squirrel; chase a pretty girl around the floor, And promenade.  Now I know a rabbit and a squirrel And I appreciate a pretty girl, but promenades, “NO!” I thought for a while, then I looked at Mr. Owl and said, “That’s our Senior Citizens Building that you see The Citizens all come to have a good time To leave their worries and cares behind. At noon a meal is served to all Then it: becomes a dining hall. On Wednesday Blood Pressure is checked without a fee Our Senior Citizens deserve something free. On Friday Night you do hear a Band You also hear singing and a clapping of hands. We have folks large and small, And as yousay, some are short and some are tall. What you hear about a rabbit and a squirrel, Also about a pretty girl is a square dance call. Our Senior Citizens never stop or stall, And our building becomes a dance hall, Promenade is what you do with your feet You must have rhythm and get the beat. First there is two, then four, then add two couples more And dance your partner around the floor: Mr. Owl said, “My mind is at ease, And with the Senior Citizens I am well pleased, I can tell the others in my flock That you Senior Citizens never, never stop. Imogene Huston Portsmouth   My Birthday Where did all the time go? It seems like only yesterday I had all kinds of places to go, Watching my grandchild at play. My Daughters and their family, Blessed my life with their faith, Knowing the joy of their working, The children trusting in Gods way. My sons love the thrill of driving, Early in life choosing the cars, Should the truck be red or black, Or a Jeep that drive so very far. I should be resting and enjoying life. Since all the years are adding up fast, I do miss my friends who passed on. Living in Heaven where peace will last. Each year is precious in God’s sight, We must be happy and rest at night, The month of April is my 70th Birthday, Each day I enjoy Gods’ blessing and life.. Nancy Mineer South Shore, KY