A short meeting,
Just the time spent in line,
She is buying two cans
Of soup, off brand.
Apologizing, she counts out her pennies,
I smile and say ‘No problem-How’s your day?’
‘Oh, I’m worried about my boy.’
‘Well, boys are something to worry about.’
‘Yes, I fear he is headin’ to prison-
I caught him drinkin’ last night
And when they catch him driving…
I worry he will follow his brother to the grave.’
She turns and smiles
As I volunteer, ‘I’ll pray for him.’
And I do-
For him
And her
And for all us sinners
Now and at the hour of our death.
thecourseofourseasons
Observations from the Garden
thecourseofourseasons 
I echo Daydreamertoo – without belief it is good to know that someone believes in us.
Anna :o]
And this is why I love the Ozarks. Every thing this poem is about: the niceness, the religion, politeness, familiarity – you don’t find these things as easily in other places.
Thanks, Sam. I think your comment especially the familiarity is what I was thinking about when I wrote this. Glad you liked it! K
I love this little community. I’m glad I never left it.
very poignant, very profound.
Thanks! K
Great piece–I felt I was in line behind you, watching your encounter. And something about the title captured my attention as well. I guess it’s because I didn’t think of the Ozarks as a place that requires you to wait in line!
I’m happy you liked the poem – and that the title drew you in. I am not completely happy with the title – should probably be Standing in Line (at the Dollar General in Stone County in the Missouri Ozarks) but that seemed a little unwieldy! : ) K
You have a kind and caring heart ~ Thanks for sharing this ~
Thank you
smiles…nice interaction…and it shows your heart a bit as well…def for those we know nothing else to do for them…prayer is the best thing…
Thanks as always, B – K
so heartfelt, Kathleen… more should take the time to care as you do
Thank you, Sarah. K
oh it was nice that you offered to pray for her and just showed her that you care…the world needs more people like you who see when others are troubled and offer help…
Thanks. K
Even if we don’t believe, it is so wonderful to me, to know that someone will pray for us. This is lovely. And you are full of care and compassion.
You are too kind – thank you. K