When the Last One Leaves

We knew that it was coming. It has to be this way.

We're back now where we started, like on our wedding day.

Between that day and this one we've journeyed by God's grace.

As He increased our number, we ran a rigorous pace.

One son and then another born every other year

until they totaled seven. Just boys, but each was dear.

But then there was another; this time a darling girl;

and talk about excitement! Life really was a whirl.

Our house? Yes, we enlarged it. Our bedrooms number six.

But now it seems so empt as the clock profoundly ticks.

It seems that it is mocking, and says, "What will you do?"

"They've all got up and left you." It makes us sort of blue.

Almost forgot to tell you, they're not all married off;

The youngest two are single, their time comes soon enough.

But they just left for college. It's much too far away

out in yon distant city, four hundred miles, I'd say.

Of course we still have Snoopy. A canine - Man's Best Friend.

So called by earthly standards, we'll keep her till her end.

And then we have each other to cherish and to hold.

And too, we have rich memories more valuable than gold.

The children all are active at jobs and for the Lord.

That makes it so rewarding, those years which went quite hard.

There's one now who is missing. A higher call he heard.

Two years ago he left us. We've comfort in God's word.

We have a sincere longing that they may all succeed

As persons and as families. Their cause in prayer we'll plead.

We do not ask for riches spelled out in earthly wealth;

But treasures great in heaven, and Lord, please give them health!

We have a new perspective, inclined to view the past.

But no, the future beckons. Press on while life shall last!

Not stifled by past failures but cheered by God's dear word

We'll live till heaven's reunion for Jesus Christ, our Lord.

fpn / 1976