Smile

If you see someone a-lookin' mighty lonely,
An' if you see someone a-lookin' mighty blue,
Then take a little while,
Just to doff your hat and smile,
You'll find that a smile for someone's
Cheerin' for you too.

If you see someone whose heart seems full o' sadness,
Then wrap your love around them for a while,
Then do your level best,
To bring them happiness,
And don't forget to give out
With a smile.

By Treva E. Stokes  (1912-1980)

The Rose

Thru my flower bed, every day
My feet just cannot help but stray,
I love each wondrous flower sweet
Yet it takes the rose, for joy complete.


By Treva E. Stokes (1912-1980)

Tiny Stuff

Walking in the woods after sunset
I noticed company on the secret path.
Above and around were mosquitoes,
Poised to take a peace of me. 

Safer it could be to face a snake
Then carriers of the West Nile Virus. 
How is it that such tiny things
Dare to challenge a giant's stance. 

When we look only at something’s size,
It's true significance is missed.
Like the mosquitoes bringing disease,
Sinful habits can drain a person’s spirit. 

If one seeks the true value of life,
Then watch out for the tiny stuff
Because those are the matters that
Determine the real value of the walk. 

By Alan T. Stokes

August 22, 2002

Note: This was written during the Summer of 2002 when the West Nile Virus disease was the health matter that was the center of attention. This disease is blamed on the deaths of more than 12 people to date this year.