| COLLECTION C -those by Dolores Fruth |
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Bob Stumpf February 28, 2009 My friend, Bob, left me today It was so unexpected. He sent an email hours ago In this way we connected. He wrote of journeys he had made Or about the family tree. His poems and his prose inspired His many friends and me. He was a great yet gentle man Who walked close to his God. A humble conservationist, Whose hands embraced the sod. So now I'm reading once again A message that he wrote, “Keep playing and don’t quit” it said. The words catch in my throat. I’ll ne’er forget my gentle friend Who lived the words he said. His love and friendship will live on Bob’s touch is never dead -Dolores Fruth |
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MOTHER-IN-LAW I never thought of myself As a mother-in-law, you see, But suddenly my daughter and son Inflicted this on me! Oh, my I thought, I've heard the jokes, I don't know what to do. Should I just smile and fold my hands, Or try to muddle through? The first test was a son-in-law. He was so big and strong. Would he, according to the norm, Blame me for what goes wrong? He cracked a joke, then smiled and laughed; Oh was the joke on me? It's hard enough to raise two kids, But now I'm up to three. And then my son came home one day With a girl upon his arm. Her quiet voice, the looks she gave Caused me some small alarm. What does she really think of me As she talks of E.R.A.? My family went from two to four, What can I really say? So I relaxed and was myself, I found it was a treat. Mother-in-law jokes are overdone, And now my life is sweet. Not only do I love the ones Who joined the family late, But now I have the grandsons And it is really great. Mother-in-law is in the past. I'm Grandma to them all. With my extended family, I really have a ball. |
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MOMS THE WORD There are all kinds of MOMS in the world today. Which one is yours? It's hard to say. Combine them all and you will see A composite MOM for you and me. The DOCTOR MOM will feel your head: Asks "Does it it hurt, is your throat red?" She cautions you, "Don't read in this light, Your eyes will dim, take care of your sight!" The SERGEANT MOM says, "Act your age, This is my house, you are the page. Straighten up now and follow my way, As long as you live here, you'll do as I say!" There are SUPER MOMS who run all day From home to job. They rarely play. "I'll do it myself." is their urgent cry. As we all sit back as they rush on by. The COMEDIAN MOM has lines of her own; "You'd forget your head if it wasn't screwed on," "What if your face stayed just like that?" It's an "awkward stage" or "baby fat." The PROPHETIC MOM says, "Why listen to me. I'm just your mother, but wait and see, When you have your own kids someday. You'll thank me for what I had to say." The DEAR MOM tells us, "Say thanks and please." "Write to Grandma.", "Eat your peas." "Don't whisper because it's impolite." And "Kiss all around when you say goodnight." The PHILOSOPHER MOM will help us through. "You can't eat your cake and have it too." "You made your bed, now lie in it." "Wait till Dad gets home, most any minute!" All of these MOMS are familiar, we know. We feel their concern as we stumble and grow. We notice that love is what they expressed. Beneath all the words, they want what is best. GRANDMA'S ADVENTURE I took Grandma to the movies. It was a real upheaval For she had never seen one And thought that it was evil. Oh, Grandma sat enraptured As she watched the screen above As Nelson sang to sweet Jeannette And won his lady love. It was in Technicolor, So beautiful to see. My grandma's eyes were sparkling As she turned and said to me- "This movie is not evil. Let's watch it one more time, And I will gladly pay the bill Since it cost us each a dime." So we were late for dinner And Mom was quite upset, But Grandma told about our day That she did not regret. I took Grandma to the movies And I am proud to say She is a regular patron At the Saturday matinee! Written at 15 of actual event. |
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MARY MAGDALENE Do you see Mary Magdalene? What is she doing here? She's nothing but a YOU KNOW WHAT Please make her disappear. She has no right to see our Lord HER KIND should hide in shame. Instead she shows up all the time, In spite of our disdain! She also hovered near the cross. We turned our heads away. It's hard enough to watch Him die, Without HER in the way. Oh look, she's standing at the tomb This early Easter morn. The stone has now been rolled away, And Jesus is reborn. We have been blind about His life, And why He came to be. 'Twas for the Mary Magdalenes And sinners just like me. Please Lord forgive the thoughts I had When you were crucified. We all are Mary Magdalenes, And must be cleansed inside. |
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THE DISCIPLES They locked themselves in a room to pray. "All hope is lost," we hear them say. With gloom and doom they bow each head, Because their Saviour now is dead. It is the end, they truly thought. His promises they now forgot, Remembering not the wine and bread, Because their Saviour now is dead. They ran away from guards one night And left their Master to His plight. They could not face the awful dread, And so their Saviour now is dead. But, look, the room is filled with light, As Christ appears to them that night. It's not the end, as all have said. He is alive, and never dead! The disciples know the truth at last. The gloom and doom had quickly passed. Unlock the door---the Good News spread-- CHRIST IS ALIVE and never dead. |
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"WE WOULD SEE JESUS" - John 12:21 We would see Jesus Is a simple request. It's the longing of mankind, So seldom expressed. We would see Jesus, But can we abide To be His disciples, And stay by His side? Can we give up hatreds, Or fears that enslave? Can we forgive others, And forget what we crave? We would see Jesus, Is a lofty desire. It's one that ignites And sets us afire. Aglow with the Spirit, Our faith then will rise, For as we see Jesus We capture the prize! THE COMING In this the Advent season, our hearts are full of joy, As we await the coming of Mary's little boy. He comes divinely promised to all upon the earth Who seek a loving Savior within a humble birth. The angels will announce it and sing with one accord, As we go forth to see the Child, who is our promised Lord. As God prepares the stable, He asks us all to come That we may find and then receive the gift of God's own Son. CHRISTMAS CAROLERS Under the lamplight down the street, A song arises, soft and sweet. The snow floats gently down to earth, As carolers sing of a humble birth. A church bell rings in the frosty air Calling each one to come to prayer. The organ refrain invites us in As voices blend with a Christmas hymn. A song and a prayer, then words of joy Remind us again of Mary's Boy. Because God sent his Gift divine, Eternal life is yours and mine. As carolers depart in fields of snow Another light has shed its glow, The lamplight of our Father's face As He bestows to us His grace. (at age 14) |
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OUR NAME I learned at Sunday School today That Hell's an awful place. Since Hell is also half my name, It must be a disgrace. I asked my daddy right away If we could change our name. The kids at school will tease no more, And I won't feel the shame. Our name is Hellmann now you know, So Heckman would be nice. But Daddy looked distressed and said It wasn't good advice. "Our name is not a bad one But one we wear with pride." He said that we should honor it And put my fear aside. "A name is only a disgrace If you will make it so." I'll try to honor what he said No matter where I go. *Of course I did change my name when I married Bill but I always remembered my Dad's words. --Dolores Hellmann Fruth |
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THE NEW CHURCH The old church in the valley Was in such disrepair. The people voted right away About our great despair. It was decided by the vote That we should build anew. An edifice upon a hill Would soon come into view. Everyone joined in the task, As we reviewed the plans. The brick and mortar fell in place With many willing hands. Then soon within the nave we saw A marble altar, white. A golden cross was centered there Amid the candlelight. The altar in the center Gives God the proper place. That this is why we built the church To thank Him for His grace. Oh, God, our Father, grant that we May never fall away. That we may ever faithful be As we are here today. The marble altar will remain Reminding us to be As firm in faith as this white rock Till all eternity. ††††††††††††††††††††††††††††††† FOLLOW-UP MESSAGE-40 years later To the Members of St. John's Lutheran Church We wish that we could journey now And spend this time with you. Our memories fly back again To when the church was new. Our ministry at St. John's church Saw many changes then. We built an edifice to God To serve our fellowmen. Many years have now gone by, As you celebrate together One hundred years of Christian growth, May God bless your endeavor. Sincerely, Pastor and Mrs. William E. Fruth Serving 1952-1958 |
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PARTY LINE VS CHAT ROOM Once long ago a "party line" Arrived and suited me just fine. I used the phone to hear what's new, Then voiced another point of view. In time I longed for privacy. A single line was right for me. No group to listen or express How I should deal with any stress. Now we advance with no regret To "chat room" on the internet. This is a fact as I can tell. The "party line" is up and well. We haven't gone so far in time From advent of the "party line". Our human nature ever rolls To be in touch with other souls. So if by phone or e-mail means Communicate to share your dreams. Reach out and touch some lives somewhere And learn how nice it is to share. GRANDMOTHER'S UNIFORM My grandmother wore a uniform So beautiful to behold! It didn't have medals or amulets Or buttons that glittered like gold. Yet it commanded my respect, This garment beyond compare. It was her amazing apron That she would always wear. I'd seek my solace on her lap The apron dried my tears. She swept it as a coverlet And rocked away my fears. She carried apples in the folds. No basket in our view. Then as she sliced to make the pies It held the peelings too. And even with the finished treat She used it now once more To grasp the hot and fragrant pie Out of the oven's door. When she was cold the apron then Was wrapped around her arms. This magic garment did so much To magnify her charms. Oh I will never now forget The apron's legacy, For in my mind I see it wave A fond farewell to me! |
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GOLDEN THREADS When you are far away from me You still will be my friend. I'll always feel your closeness here, And this will never end. The golden thread of friendship Binds the fabric of our hearts. The stitch cannot be severed Even when we are apart. Please remember, my dear friend, How much you mean to me. A golden cord will keep us close Until eternity. |
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WAR THOUGHTS - 1940 The war does not affect me Like others that I meet. There is a banner with a star In the window 'cross the street. My sister's beau is going And she sits down to cry. It's hard to see him march away, Perhaps to fight or die. Oh, we endure the rations Of many things we use. We pull the blackout curtains. We dread the nightly news. We worry and we wonder When all of this will end. Will wars be gone forever Because we lost a friend? Our country cries in unison, As boxes come by train. The red star is replaced with gold In our neighbor's window pane. Oh God we need to end this war, We pray on bended knee. We thank our boys who risk their lives That we may all be free. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• REMEMBER WW2
Remember the boys who were marching Then all of us on the home front The call was a desperate wailing Our tasks were many and varied Yes, thousands of soldiers were dying But still on the home front we gathered We nourished the prisoners they captured The years brought a toll to our nation The years have distorted the memory. |
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ALL THIS FOR ME If Christ came back for Christmas And saw the gifts and tree, Would He be happy with the fuss, And ask, "All this for Me?" Or would He wonder if we knew About His humble birth, Of how He came in peace and love To walk upon this earth. We scurry 'round to find the toys And grown-up gadgets too. Do we forget that God gave first His son for me and you? So in this Advent season, As we prepare the way, Let's welcome Jesus in our hearts And ask that He will stay. Our hearts will open to the need Of others we can see. Then Christ could truly feel the joy, And say, "ALL THIS FOR ME!" |
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REBUTTAL AT 80 Don't tell me that I must conform to the rule, That when I am 80, I'll act like a fool. My dress will not change into costumes bizarre. My habits and tastes will remain as they are. As I reach my eighties I'll continue to be The one that God made as the essence of "ME"! AN OLDER PERSON'S PRAYER Dear Lord, as I get older, I feel an added strain. Help me to keep my tongue in check About each ache and pain. Teach me to listen patiently To others who relate In great detail what they endure, And what is now their fate. It isn't easy getting old, Remaining sweet and nice. I want to teach just everyone To honor my advice. But then my friends would disappear, If I cannot admit That maybe sometimes I am wrong, At least a little bit. It's always fun to be in charge, Just help me comprehend, That as the day folds into night, I'll truly need a friend. Amen Year 2001 |
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GOD'S PUMPKIN PATCH God found me in a pumpkin patch Still clinging to the vine. I had the seeds of doubt inside, So full of dirt and grime. He lifted me and washed away The hate and greed and pride. He carved for me a smiling face, And put his light inside. I might have stayed upon that vine, But God reached out that night. He washed my soul and made me clean. Now I am new and bright. If you are rotting on the vine Reach out for God today. He'll make you clean and you will shine In His own special way. Harvest on the Farm It is the autumn season. The sky is bright and blue. The apples, wearing checks of red, Intensify the hue. The cornstalks in the meadow Have turned to gold from green. The rustling stalks now sing a song, A melody supreme. The grasses on the hillside Stand proud and tall and strong. Their golden grain sways in the breeze As if to join the song. The harvest is ongoing With tractors in the field. Oh, we must work with haste today So God can give the yield. For now the geese fly overhead To find a warmer clime. We see the leaves of red and gold And grapes upon the vine. The winter snows are coming soon. Our harvest has been won. We thank God for his bounty now And for a task well done. Dolores Fruth - 2004 |
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NOVEMBER WINDS November winds are blowing, Their leaves are flying high. Their colors look so beautiful Against the graying sky. They fall and swirl across the lawn, Like children out to play. It is a last sweet grasp of life Before the end of day. The maple tree, with leaves of red, Tries hard to stay serene. But winter winds are ready now To strip the branches clean. When autumn comes into our lives, We too hold on so tight. We feel the force of winter winds On this November night. We have the promise as life dies, That this is not the end. The maple tree will come alive, And we will live again. November winds are blowing, And though we feel the strife, Our God holds out the promise Of everlasting life. FUTILITY I'm singing a song of springtime, Of the beauty it will bestow. I'm singing a song of garden's fair While standing knee-deep in snow. I'm singing of birds and their chatter, Of sunshine's glimmering gold. I smell the essence of violets, sweet, While my nose is numb with cold. The wonders of beautiful Maytime Are right on the tip of my pen. Oh, what is the use of sonnets like these For winter is here again. -Age 16 MAKING ANGELS IN THE SNOW If I could be a kid of eight, I'd ask my mom if I could skate Up and down the hill. Oh, then a game of hide and seek, When it is wrong to even peek, Would be an added thrill. Perhaps I'd find a shady spot And just lie back and laugh a lot With other kids I know. No worries about my many bills, Or why I need so many pills, Or why my gait is slow. Nights would be full of many stars, My dreams would give me my desires, And hugs would be the cure. As we retreat to childhood days. Let's all pretend we know the ways To live a life that's pure. Just let imagination bring Some magic into everything. It's really good you know. Instead of being old in mind, Just be a kid and you will find An angel in the snow. A LOOK AT MYSELF Who is Dolores? I often wonder. She really must be the family blunder. She reads a book, or writes a play, While dreaming of being famous someday. But if real life is not that large, I think that Dolores will be in charge! Age 14 SANDCASTLES A child is on his knees today Building in the sand. The castle is an arduous task. The end result is grand. Oh, now we watch the tide come in. The child then claps with glee. He knows the outcome of his work As it falls into the sea. A man sits in his office now To formulate a plan. He builds his empire tirelessly. The end result is grand. But when the tide comes crashing in, How does the man react? "It is my castle" he will shout, "And now I want it back." The ocean does not heed the cry. It does not own the sand. Just as the child we must rejoice, The end result is grand! A DEBT PAID He came to earth so long ago, To pay the debt that I would owe. At first I tried to compensate. I'll pay my way and celebrate. But I could never reach the goal As I soon knew I'd lose my soul. I could not earn eternity. My sins were mounting endlessly. Oh then I read the mighty word "You're saved by Grace" is what I heard. He came to pay the debt for me And with His death He set me free. This child of Mary's came to earth To sanctify my own rebirth. I ask forgiveness and I know He pays the debt He didn't owe. God gave His all, His only Son To erase the sins of everyone. So just believe and seek his face, We are anointed by his Grace! Little Easters He did not die that Sunday morn. It was the day he was reborn. Oh yes he "passed away' it's true Into a life that's ever new. His body lies beneath the sod. It's just a shell for he's with God. "He is not here" as angels say "For we have taken him away." These little Easters come to all When e'er our loved ones heed the call. And though we grieve and miss them so, Our tears fall now for us, you know. Just as a butterfly is born, We must rejoice instead of mourn. The Church Triumphant celebrates. The one I love is saved by grace! CHRIST IS RISEN! HE IS RISEN INDEED! Written 2004 following Pastor Wm. Fruth's death. The Rose Window by Dolores Fruth I see the stained glass window Gleaming in the night It shines above the entrance A rose of pure delight. It takes me back so many years When I would walk inside To see the beauty of the rose And all it signified. The church in all its glory Alone will have no power. Our Lord has brought His light within In the symbol of the flower. Then as I turn around I see A gold cross gleaming there, As I remember former days When I first knelt in prayer. I met my Lord so long ago Within these walls you see And I again will say a prayer At Holy Trinity. Thanks be to God for all who served And taught His ministry. For neath the beauty of the rose They gave God's love to me. |
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The "Best of Times" - (with quotes from Charles Dickens> "It was the best of times" to hold his hand, To catch his smile and understand. "It was the worst of times" to watch him fail. This vital man is now so frail. "It was the day of light" when morning came He reached for my hand amidst the pain. "It was the day of darkness" and some despair. He could not relate or even share. "It was the spring of hope" when he remembered our life. It was filled with love as husband and wife. "It was the winter of despair," he is so weak. For help and strength to God we speak. "We had everything before us," we treasure each day. We remember old times. We laugh and we pray. "We have nothing before us" on this earth to see. I unfold his cold hand and let him go free. So "directly to Heaven" he's now on his way, And I'll wait for the moment to meet him someday. By Dolores Fruth to my beloved Bill. - Jan. 4, 2004 - † Bob: Thank you so much for this story and reminding me that God is watching over me. On Saturday evening (7-24-2004) I surprised a thief in my house. He hid until my back was turned and then ran out of the door. He took a box of jewelry but did not harm me. I am so thankful to God that he ran instead of confronting me. The box had my mothers, and my grandmothers rings and pieces that Bill had given me. The thief probably would have taken more but I came home early from Karin's that night. I never had expensive jewelry. The value was in my own eyes. this morning I wrote this poem about it. The Thief The thief did not come in the night But in the afternoon. I interrupted what he sought By coming home too soon. He thought that he had much more time To find his contraband, But I came in and with great speed He turned his heels and ran. A jewelry box is missing now That held my memories The value of the contents Was only meant for me. Oh, he will get a little cash For items in the case. But the heirlooms from my loved ones Can never be replaced. I cannot wear the locket Or the ring my grandma wore. The bracelet from the one I love Was taken out the door. It's just possessions we all know, And we should never fret. Yet I have lost a part of me And that's what I regret. How could he know that what he stole Was more than jewel or stone? He took the peace from in my heart As now I sit alone. The Law and The Gospel God's Word is brought before us As Law and Gospel too. We cannot separate them As we propose to do. The Law was given to us all By God's divine command. It was a mountaintop event Directed by God's hand. For we are debtor's to our Lord Who orders us to give Obedience to the laws he made That show us how to live. The rules are there before us now. We try so hard to please. Yet every day we miss a step, And fall upon our knees. What can we do to lift ourselves? We cry out in despair. As humans we cannot attain What God has written there. The Gospel now comes into view And we will see God's face . He tells us of his sacrifice That saves us by His grace. We need both Law and Gospel As from our knees we rise. Because God gave His Son for us We are not crucified. Christmas 2004 It is the Christmas season And time to trim the tree. The decorating of the house Has now been left to me. I slowly open up a box And find the humble stable. I carefully unwrap each piece And place them on the table. The cr�che is at the center Of all the decorations, For God sent forth his only Son In humble acclamation. The little cabin finds its place And then the small giraffe. The drum I gave to you is here. It always made you laugh. The red poinsettias grace the room. The wreath is on the door. But now I feel alone and sad For you are here no more. I'll send the Christmas cards to friends With only just my name. You asked me to remember you By keeping things the same. But it is hard, my darling, Since we have had to part. So I will try with memories To keep you in my heart. By Dolores Fruth (to Bill) IRAQ We read and hear about Iraq as a distant foreign land What is our interest in this place? It's hard to understand. And yet if we know history or read our precious book, We find Iraq is mentioned there if we will only look. Mesopotamia was it's name so many years ago. It once was known as Babylon and other names we know. The garden of Eden was in Iraq , where God created man. There Noah built his famous ark by following God's plan. The tower of Babel was in Iraq, it brought about disgrace. Abraham was from the South of this distinguished place. Rebekah, Jacob , Rachel, too, all from this land had risen. Daniel was in the lion's den and Jews were here in prison. Belshazzar, the mighty king saw writing on the wall. Babylon conquered Jerusalem. It was a mighty fall. Jonah, Amos, Ezekiel, and wise men who were sages All came to be in this small land and many through the ages. Now Israel is number one as mentioned in the Book. Iraq will hold the second place, so stop and read and look. We know that Peter also preached in the country of Iraq. He took the gospel message this man we call "The Rock". We read the verse of 9:1I in the Islamic Koran. It states the eagle will now cleanse and bring peace to the land. So many facts come into view. We note the prophecy. The 9:11 mentioned there, is that our destiny? The following poem is very personal and was written and is being published here to reassure others that those whom are no longer on this earth are loved and will never be forgotten. We truly believe that Bill, Dorothy, Wesley, Sara George, Richard, Geraldine, and others we name in our hearts are safely in God's hands. IN RETROSPECT I can't believe it's been so long Since I last saw your face. It seems like only yesterday I felt your warm embrace. I feel your presence every day. I know that you are near. I cannot live without your love. It is forever here. It helps sustain the life I live. It guides me as before, And though you're gone in many ways, I know that there is more. We walked together hand in hand, For, oh, so many years. Our thoughts and memories guide me now. I have no room for tears. So rest in peace my dear one, You have not left my heart. I feel you ever close to me And we will never part. ...(written one year [1-16-05] after the death of my husband, Bill) ..Dolores Fruth ANNIVERSARY February 11, 2005 It's 60 years ago today Since I walked down that aisle. It was a somber time for me Until I saw his smile. That smile of love and tenderness Sustained me through the years He never wandered from my side. He quieted my fears. I am so blessed that I could live With this man all my life. And though he's gone for a little while, I will remain his wife. A New Life - Feb. 21, 2005 I woke up from a dream one day To see an empty room. No longer did it feel like home, But just an empty tomb. "What can I do to live again?" I then asked God in prayer, "I'm tired of isolation, Lord, I only feel despair." Then suddenly I knew right then That I must leave this place. I'll go where I can be with those Who understand my pace. I'm in the golden years of life And if the room turns cold Just find a sunny one instead Where you are never old. Life gives us opportunities Even in our dotage, So now I'll laugh and live again In my retirement cottage. House For Sale "House For Sale' is on the sign Outside my windowpane. It wasn't just a house you know And so I will explain. For it is here that dreams were made And laughter filled the space. The rooms were full of warmth and joy. It was our special place. A house is made of wood or stone, And doesn't have a heart. The ones who live within it's walls Must add the vital part. It was our home, not just a house, Much like a wondrous tale, But now that you have gone away It's just a "House for Sale". The Kid With The Attitude He's coming home, he's coming home. I heard the words at last His tour of duty now is o'er The danger now is past. It's been a year since he left home And went so far away. His courage and his steadfastness Has kept him close each day. But still I wait impatiently To see him face to face For nothing will be quite the same Until we can embrace. I whisper prayers of gratitude As I shed tears of joy For God has safely brought him back Our precious soldier boy. I know that he is now a man Of that I can't elude. But in my mind he'll always be "The kid with the attitude!." By Grandma Fruth - 3/05 Doors The moving van is loaded now. It moves on down the drive. I turn around to close the door Then take a look inside. There are no books upon the shelf Or pictures on the wall. The rooms are full of emptiness. There is no sound at all. I close the door and turn the key. And now my eyes are wet. This house was full of memories That I cannot forget. Yet now I know that as I close This door that I will find Another door to open up To give me peace of mind. I will unpack the boxes then And find my memories. A new life is ahead for me That sets my heart at ease. I turn the key in this new door And feel the warmth inside For as we close one door in life Another opens wide. 4/05 |
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Homecoming Now from my kitchen window I'm not looking at the past But at a lovely garden And I am home at last! By Dolores Fruth (in tribute to my new neighbor, who faithfully tends the beautiful garden close to my door) ---------------------------------------------- An Angel In Disguise I have a niece named Donna Who inspires me with her style. No matter what life gives to her She takes it with a smile. Her life has not been easy And I have watched her grow Her steps were sometimes faltering Her progress often slow. This did not stop our Donna She stayed right in the race And like the tortoise and the hare, She soon was in first place. She took the prize for steadfastness Determined to be known As one who could control her life And do it on her own. As wife and mother she excelled Within her limitations. She wore that smile for all to see Above all expectations. I love our precious Donna She is so pure and wise. For God has given her to us As an angel in disguise. By (Aunt) Dolores Fruth LIGHT UP NIGHT AT PASSAVANT A wonder land unfolded Before our eyes this night. The streets are lined with lanterns Aglow with candle light. The carriages, so delightful, Transport the lanes so slow As we ponder our beginnings One hundred years ago. The carolers are singing Clad in their vintage dress. The snow is softly falling As all of us feel blest. We hear the name of loved ones As in the frosty air A bell is sounded for each one That we remember there. Oh, this is just a tiny taste Of what we did tonight. With concerts, songs and puppet shows To add to our delight. Trains and trees and gifts galore And time for children too. With Santa and his gift shop There's so much more to do. But in our hearts we also know That it's a special joy When we light up to honor now The birth of Mary's Boy. 2005 The SURPRISE GIFT I cannot cook a gourmet meal That heralds oohs and aahs. I cannot sing an aria That merits your applause. My green thumb always fades away And flowers never flourish They bow their little heads in shame No matter how I nourish. Athletically I am a flop No matter how I try I tend to stumble through the class While others look and sigh. Now God took pity on my plight And saved me just in time Just one last talent he had left, It was the gift of rhyme. I gladly opened up the gift And much to my surprise The talent that was left for me Was really quite a prize. Now finally I found my niche And I am born anew, For God has given me the gift That I now share with you. The food I offer you today Is from my soul you see. I hope you'll taste it and enjoy This entr�e made by me. ---------------------------------------------- FIRST ANNIVERSARY AT PASSAVANT The blossoms are aglow again, The scent invades the lane. The petals softly chase the breeze And kiss my windowpane. It's springtime now at Passavant So wonderful to see. But the friends who greet me at my door Are more beautiful to me. The winter of my life had come. It once was cold and gray. The bitter winds of loneliness Had blown my hopes away. One year ago I walked the lane. The welcome sign was there. The friendly faces were aglow Like petals in the air. No longer do I feel the winds That held my hopes in tow. It's springtime now at Passavant, Where blossoms are aglow. ( On the 23rd of April, 2005, I moved into a lovely cottage on the campus of the Passavant Retirement Community. As I look back and think of all the great opportunities and support and especially the wonderful friendships at P.R.C. I am truly grateful for my new life.) Humus The sod to which we all shall go Is known as "humus" and helps things grow. The germination in our grounds Is a miracle where hope abounds. "Humus" is part of "humility", Of servitude, or modesty. The very word means free from pride, So we must cleanse the dirt inside. Another derivative comes to mind, To "humiliate" or be unkind. With this we wallow in the dirt And mortify the ones we hurt. Let us reflect and ask our God To keep us aware of the blackened sod. From dust to dust we live each day In humble awe we kneel and pray. (This reflection relates the thoughts I had after A powerful sermon by Pastor Clagg.) Fish Story There once was a lad who went fishin' Before he embarked on a mission. With two fish and five loaves He joined with the droves And dreamed of the tasty nutrition. They stopped at the end of the day As the master knelt down to pray. With five thousand to feed Jesus felt all the need And knew that he must find a way. T'was then that the boy at his side Offered his lunch, filled with pride. As the Lord blessed it, they ate. The portions were great And they gathered 12 baskets aside. The miracle is hard to explain, It's not about hunger and pain, But the gift of a lad Who gave all that he had In return for a heavenly gain. The EAGLE AWAKES Written September 11, 2001 The mighty eagle once again Has wakened from his sleep. A foe so sinister and cruel Has caused us all to weep. Our tears will not console us As long as devils ride. They steered our planes into the sites Where many thousands died. The searing flames will melt the steel That crumbles round our feet. The devastation tears our hearts But doesn't bring defeat. The eagle spreads his mighty wings And we unite as one. God give us strength to fight once more Until the war is won. MY PASSAVANT CHRISTMAS GIFT I look into my Christmas box to find a wonder there, For midst the glitter and the bows are gifts beyond compare! I open up a cottage now where friends and love abound. I then unwrap security with helpers all around. I find a package with my name emblazoned on the label, Inviting me to come and eat with friends at every table. The gift that holds activities is packed up to the crest, With outlet for my soul and mind to help me do my best. There also is a box called health that promises to share, In times when I have other needs with tender loving care. This is the gift of Passavant. It is my treasure chest. The box is wrapped with peace and joy, and I am truly blest. -Dec.2006 PORTRAIT OF WINTER The snow lies thick and shining Like the frosting on a cake. It's a heaven sent perfection That the angels like to make. And up and down the roadway Are trees bent low in prayer, For now their naked branches Have a blanket white to wear. There is a lonely sentry Keeping watch through dusk to dawn. Such a funny looking fellow Is the snowman on the lawn. As the treetops turn to silver, The night comes like a dream, And the glow of friendly lamplight From the frosted windows gleam. Inside the hearth is burning bright As shadows dance and glow. It is the perfect ending Of the portrait etched in snow. ...Jan.2007 TRANSFORMATION
I dug a hole in the garden REPENTANCE THE HARBINGER The robin returns in springtime As the snow swirls o'er the town. Its feathers are puffed like a pillow That is stuffed to the limit with down. Oh where is the warmth of the season That he came to announce to us all? His food in the ground is frozen As we hear now his pitiful call. He flutters his way to the holly To find the berries of red. Surviving he waits for the thawing And his wiggle feast ahead. We also wait for the sunshine That this harbinger promised to bring. When his song will become so joyous As he announces that now it is spring! |
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To Bob Stumpf and family Let the earth rejoice, Christ the Lord is risen! The Lenten season soon now will cease As sunrise comes with promised peace. In death He took our place. For Christ has risen and we see, He gave His life for you and me And we are saved by grace. Joy and peace to you at this Easter season. Dolores Fruth -2007 A group of women in Grace Lutheran Church, Rochester, make Prayer Shawls for those who are ill. With each stitch, the maker says a prayer for the person who will receive the shawl. They made one for me [while Dolores was in back surgery.] of which I am most grateful. This is my poem of appreciation. The Prayer Shawl Little did I know as I struggled with the pain That someone was humbly knitting and calling out my name. Each stitch would bring a heartfelt prayer to help me every day And as the shawl was finished, the pain would wash away. So now the shawl surrounds me in my recovery The prayer is answered as my strength is given back to me I thank the one who made the shawl , who thought enough to care For God has heard the clicking of her needles and her prayer. 6/07 Dear bob I went to my church in Rochester today and went up ,however slowly, to the altar to partake of Holy Communion. While I have been recieving the bread and wine here at Passavant in my pew,it was so wonderful to stand at the altar once again. I came home and wrote this poem. ---------------------------------------------- COMMUNION I walked up to the altar To meet the Master there. He had a feast of bread and wine That I was asked to share. "Come unto Me, he softly said, And take my flesh and blood, For I am longing for your soul. I'll save it with my love" . I walked back from the altar His saving Grace was mine. Communion with my Savior Is more than bread and wine. THE KIDS NEXT DOOR
I hear the sound of children ---------------------------------------------- Remembering how important dedicated staff is to a caring institution, after serving for 25 years in one, I wrote this for them. NOT JUST A JOB
In gratitude we thank you now
(dedicated to the staff and volunteers at Glade Run Lutheran Services at Zelienople,Pa and their devotion
to the children) THE LEGEND OF THE CHRISTMAS FLOWER Pablo was a little boy, in a legend long ago. Maria was his sister's name. The scene was Mexico. The little boy and little girl on a bleak December day Walked to the tiny village church to see the Christmas play. But thay did not have any gifts to give to God's own Son. They looked around and found some weeds and gathered every one. The small bouquet was placed around the humble manger scene When suddenly the leaves turned red, a miracle supreme! The little children brought the gift that we have come to know As the flower called Poinsettia that sets our hearts aglow. The starlike blooms remind us of a humble stable birth When God looked down on all mankind and sent his Son to earth. 12/07 PERFECTION Dear Lord, as people on this earth We seek to have perfection. A perfect house, a perfect job, We ask for no rejection. Help us to view our wants today To see life through your eyes, To seek instead your saving grace, Which is the perfect prize. For you have paid the awesome price As you have died for me So I may live the perfect life Through out eternity. Amen ---------------------------------------------- TO MY SHEPHERD Good Shepherd I am thankful That you are in my life. Guide me across the pastures green And through the rocks of strife. Soften my heart to be as yours That I might hold a hand, As you hold mine to guide me home To heavens promised land. Now as we journey up the path Up to the highest hill I'm not afraid of dangers there For you are with me still. Good shepherd, thank you for the care That you give day by day. I'll hold your hand and walk in faith Because you are "The Way" Amen ---------------------------------------------- MY PRAYER At your command the storms were stilled. The hungry crowds were always filled, The sick and lame felt your embrace And sinners were pardoned and saved by grace. Lord Jesus please use the days of my life To serve you by helping the ones who have strife. The sick and the lame and the hungry still cry, So help me to show them that hope did not die. For you are the source of the hope we all need Help me, as your vessel, to follow your lead. I'll try to share in my awkward way Your gift of forgiveness that I have today. Amen This prayer was written in 1962 as we served the epileptic and mentally retarded adults at Passavant Memorial Homes in Rochester, Pa. ---------------------------------------------- On this cold winter day, I am looking out of my window and see colors everywhere in spite of the snow. I hope that you enjoy them as much as I do. Colors of winter The bright azure sky In the cold morning sun Reveals a red cardinal As my day has begun. On the snow covered path I reflect on the scene As I gaze at red berries Mid the holly of green. Apple trees in the orchard Are purple and blue. And the stubble in the field Has a rich golden hue. Later on the horizon There's a brief sunset glow. The orange and the yellow Add a shine to the snow We are told that winter Is all black and white But today I saw colors That brought me delight. Thank God for this season Where colors are bold. The night turns to crystal And a sight to behold. I broke a precedent tonight at our Resident's Association Meeting. They had always had a male Pastor give the invocation. Last month they asked me if I would do it and make it in the form of a poem and so I did. We had over 100 of our residents at the meeting and believe it or not I got a standing ovation for my invocation. I don't know if that is proper or not. Here is the poem prayer. Dolores ---------------------------------------------- INVOCATION Let us pray: The residents of Passavant Have gathered here today We ask that you would guide us In all we do and say. We have so many blessings In this community Help us to use them wisely And not haphazardly. Tonight we welcome others To join us in this place Help us to make them welcome May we be conscious of the needs That face those in distress. For they are part of us you know And need our tenderness. We thank you now for giving us The chance to reach our goals To stretch our muscles and our minds And also feed our souls. Our father, bless each resident And rid us of the strife For we have come to Passavant To find "Abundant Life". Amen. Free Gift, No Strings Attached --Dolores Fruth There is nothing free in life, they say But we know differently today. God's gift is absolutely free, Abundant grace for you and me. There is no fine print mentioned here, No background check that we must clear, No strings attached to pull us in, No stated limit on our sin. We cannot earn this gift divine Christ gave his life while saving mine. The price was paid by God's own Son Forgiveness granted! We have won! Ascension Three in one, three in one! The Holy Spirit now has come. As Christ ascended from their sight He clothed them with the Spirits might. He lifted up his arms that day And blessed them in this special way He sent the Spirit to impart The grace of God in every heart. Father, Spirit and the Son, We now are blessed with three in one. The power of God is in each soul The three in one has made us whole. A CLIP CLOP DREAM (Very old lady at retirement home wished to get close to a horse again) There was a horse named Pumpkin, Who didn't even neigh As they hitched her to a carriage To fulfill a dream that day. Perhaps she knew her mission Was to make somebody smile As she clip-clopped to our entrance In her gentle rhythmic style. The wheelchair lift was lowered To pick up Mary White, Her dream to see or ride a horse Was now within her sight. There is a smile upon her face Her old eyes sparkled too. For on this lovely summer day Her dream was coming true. We rode then to the stable And Mary had to try To brush and fed the horses there As in her days gone by. Now Pumpkin rests within her stall Her journey now is done. She clip clopped to our hearts today Bringing joy to everyone. HUMAN SEXUALITY STUDY Human Sexuality, the study goes on endlessly, It's not what we had planned. God's beautiful gift has caused a rift When will we understand? This wondrous desire ignites the fire That we explore today. May we unite, lift up our sight And find a common way. Lets treat each other as a brother Forgoing our disdain. With one accord let's seek our Lord And glory in His name. Here are two of the poems I wrote about Lee Zialkowski's dream trip to the airport. I was so privileged to go with my friend and have a part in her adventure. I have also sent a picture of the two of us at the airport. I am on the committee of "Second Wind Dreams" for our nursing residents. It is much like "Make a wish" for children with cancer or other serious illnesses. Leola, a long time friend of mine, can no longer walk and is seriously ill. She had a desire when she was young to be a stewardess for an airline but she was too short. We contacted Southwest Airlines and they graciously helped us to make her dream come true. Dolores Fruth
LEOLA'S SECOND WIND DREAM
No matter what her qualities
"Second Wind Dreams" came to her aid.
It was a time of much surprise,
The ambassadors, the gifts they brought LEOLA ZIALKOWSKI'S SECOND WIND DREAM
There was a young lady named Lee
The Airline had rules to enforce
Her time as mother and wife
Second Wind Dreams is the way
She dreamed so long for her quest
God bless Lee who never let go |
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THE MAN WITH THE HOE The man with the hoe Was bending low, A clod of the earth to free, When the roar of a gun From the land of the Hun Came echoing over the lea. With eyes cast down And a troubled frown He strained the better to hear. When again the roar Of the cannon tore Through the heavens to his waiting ear. The hopeless look From his face he shook. No longer was he forlorn. Light flashed to his eyes, He looked to the skies And lo, a new man was born. To the ground dropped his hoe, Gone was his woe, As he faced the rising sun. For the man with the hoe, We'll have you know, Is now the man with the gun. |
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HORSE OF SNOW I saw a white horse made all of snow It stood still; there was no place to go - But what surprised me - its tail was pink. When I first saw it, I sure did blink. What do you feed that horse so white? And do you blanket it at night? Do you feed it oats - or maybe hay? As it stands in the cold the livelong day. The Duncan girls made that horse of snow And I'm sure Old Sol will make it go. |
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ONLY YOU I sit here alone in this vine-clad house, The house that I call my own; And at my desk sit thinking What it is that makes it my home. Sometime I think it's the ramble-rose That clings to the outside wall, Or else the old chime clock that stands As a sentinel within the hall. Could it be the merry hearth Where the fire logs gleam with delight And drive the frost from an aching heart And warm the soul with its light? Ah, a hundred things I think of, But a thousand things won't do. For what makes my house a home, Love, Is you, yes, only you. |
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