Genealogy sheets
Spread out on the table--
Writing names, dates and places
As fast as I'm able.
Microfilms, fiches,
Computers and such,
Sometimes I get discouraged,
It all seems too much.
Special collections,
And big old gray binders--
Volunteers to help us
Who act as reminders--
So when we forget
What we're supposed to do now,
They guide us, encouraging,
And showing us how.
Books on library shelf
In confusing array--
Names just keep appearing--
Guess I'm here to stay.
I find pieces of puzzle
Branch, trunk, and leaf.
It's beginning to grow
Just like a tree.
It seems that my ancestors
Gone on before
Want me to remember
That they're something more--
Than names on a tombstone,
In census, or book.
They want me to know them,
They want me to look.
Sometimes they guide me
When I listen, I hear.
When I'm quiet and prayerful,
I feel them so near.
Oh, dear family of mine
Who've passed through the veil,
Please try to be patient—
I'll try not to fail.
