Coal Camp Children

Coal Camp Children

It’s been many years, gone by times,

Pinched between decades not costing a dime.

Free for those who cared to become a part,

Of whispered memories deep in my heart.

Oak trees with branches overhead spread wide,

Covering porches, and chairs, displaying summer’s pride.

Into these memories, we walk with anticipation,

Those days with companionship and childish participation.

Nothin’ glamorous to speak in multi-colored camps,

Small houses filled with families that were often cramped.

Yet, behind the walls of chipping paint and rotting boards,

Were those being raised to leave a written record.

A story for those who many have never known,

Of coal camp children clustered sometimes all alone.

Shantytown dreamers with minds filled with images,

Swirling in their heads, to write them down a privilege.

Come visit with me my soul’s embrace,

Dusty roads, narrow creeks, my childhood place.

Loved ones being called away each day,

Leaving a few to remember days that were gray.

I only have one life and to that, I’ll be true,

One minute, one hour, one day perhaps two.

Given that our days are not permanent it’s clear,

We should cherish life’s memories year after year.