By Cindy Bennett
Poem to remember the women who came before us, who volunteered their time for church suppers and bazaars.
As the ladies entered their community church, to do their Christian part
Whispers of the women who came before, echoed from the dark,
There was a” glow” from the kitchen, shining brightly within
Revealing past memories of family, friends. and kin.
Hair laced with silver, was pinned neatly in place,
And a committed smile spread lovingly, on every face,
Hands, that only moments before, were gently folded in prayer
Eagerly began the task, of gathering food to prepare.
Like bees in a hive, these ladies worked as a team
The labours of the day flew by, so it seemed,
Another successful fundraiser, was marked in the books
The work involved was more complex, than they made it look.
Ever so slowly the glow shifted, lighting the room next door
And seated around the table, hands were folded in prayer once more,
Reading aloud their benediction, devoted to helping others
Asking God for guidance, in helping their sisters and brothers.
They had enough happiness, to kept them all sweet
Supporting one another, in their trials of that week,
They shared their sorrows together, it kept them strong
Hope filled their hearts, as they sang a blessed song.
When failure found them as it did, they stayed humble through it all
Followed by successes, they were eager to stand tall,
Strong friendships were formed, comforting when needed
Enthusiasm in looking forward, to tasks being completed.
Having the faith to strive, at banishing depression
Be determined in knowing, each day brings new lesson,
In finishing their prayers, they thanked God for his gifts
And in that instant, the glow surrounding them began to lift.
Their faces began to fade, the whispers no longer echoed near
They only left their memories, for all of us, to hold dear,
Remember our past UCW ladies, and the work that was done
As strong women of today, we will continue what they begun.
Some day we will be the whispers, young women will hear
So leave behind the purpose, you worked for through the years,
Serving others for the good, and how it helped you grow
For someday you too, could be in a kitchen ”glow.”
