A birthday loomed for an ageing friend and I saw the fear in his eyes. Being a questing soul that perhaps couldn't see what he gave others, I wrote this poem for him, hoping it would help. Rest in peace, John.
The Gift of Wonder
First came Adam, then came Eve.
"God," said Adam, "Thanks. I'm pleased!"
Then came kids; Adam wondered why?
The garden was full before they arrived.
But then they grew and Adam knew
Love for Eve--and for others too.
His heart swelled with each added friend.
Life was complete, love without end!
Then came age, what a bore!
"God," asked Adam, "What'd you do that for?"
God just grinned and Adam guffawed loud.
"Thank you," Adam reflected, "Thanks I'm allowed."
This gift of 'wonder', the questions you've posed--
I'm sated to ponder, to learn, and to know.
© 2006 Jim Ross
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Comments: 10
I like this very much except for the twelfth line.
That line confuses me. Or maybe its the brandy.
the ability to question is definitely a gift!
It is interesting for you it is god given for there are people in the world that will not question or cast doubt because of god..blind faith i guess..
i prefer to askthe questions, like Rainer Maria Rilke advices," keep loving the questions.."
though it seems a quality of youth, if one can continue to ask questions when one is older, that is also a gift of eternal youth!
what a great gift!
John--You think we ever will?
Juliet--Thank you for your critique. You've reached my muse:
When I slap your back
You'll feel my joy knowing you
Full of life and hope
Carol--Thank you. So was the man it was written for.
Thanks, Jessie.