The Back Page
By Sue Ferguson
I wrote this for my mother-in-law Betty Ferguson, who moved in to Parkview Meadows last year. She and her husband Bob lived at 1 Eden Place for over 55 years and raised their 4 children there. Moving after that many years and into a new stage of life is scary and it is really hard. The wonderful thing about being believers is that wherever we are, He goes with us.
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9
For Betty:
This Old House
If these walls could talk oh what would they say, in this quaint little home at 1 Eden Place.
A home custom built for a family of six, where the grass would grow green and the gardens grow rich.
Little feet ran amok on the floors and the halls; tiny fingerprints graced the freshly painted walls.
A home for a family and grandfather too; a refuge for a son whose marriage was through.
The kitchen held aromas of hamburger soup, kippered herring, haggis, ginger cookies, and stew.
A gathering place for occasions both happy and sad; sleeping by the fireplace for the last time with Dad.
A safe loving haven for animals galore: bunnies, squirrels, coyotes, and little Lenny at the back door.
The house became quiet as time passed by, all the kids had grown up in the blink of an eye.
No “Honey, I’m home” as the door comes ajar, no sharing a cocktail whilst gazing at stars.
Wonderful neighbours across and beside, very few from whom you may want to hide.
There are creaks and groans in this old house, even a few tiny droppings from a friendly mouse.
The Canadian flag waves in the wind, while the cute wooden bench beckons “come, sit.”
This old house, so stable and quaint, awaits a new family, perhaps a fresh coat of paint.
The fingerprints left may not be seen, but the walls of this house forever belong to Bob and Betty.
A drive by will warm our hearts and our minds, the flowers will keep blooming, beneath the shade of the pine.
Don't cry that this chapter of life is now through; for wherever you live, sweet memories and your Saviour remain with you.
