HARD TIMES
For Sue, a patient at Flin Flon Hospital
In the mid-thirties things were very hard to come by,
Many went hungry, had that haunting look in their eye,
Looking through the papers any type of work to find,
Just getting back on ones feet on everyone’s mind.

She was young and pretty, had no money left at all,
Had heard of a job up north, was answering the call,
But the bus fare was five dollars a fortune when broke,
She plucked up courage and to someone she spoke.

Who will buy my guitar for my bus fare up north,
It is in good shape and sound and of some worth,
Tears in her eyes she parted with her only treasure,
At least she’d get up north, maybe have a future.

She found a job and married, had some children too
But never could afford to replace her guitar so true,
Now old, hands too twisted to play the instrument,
Too deaf to hear the sweet music that can be sent.

A young woman came to the hospital to play and sing
And with her a lovely sleek guitar of hers did bring,
The old ladies eyes alight wanted to hold it tight,
Sixty years ago my dear guitar was lost to my sight.

Today most of us don’t know what sacrifice can mean,
A little inconvenience by some of us may be seen,
So as I lay me down to sleep with many a treasure,
I’ll thank God above for the gifts I have in full measure.

(Millicent) Ann Margetson July 17, 2002