My Special Family Picnic

My Special Family Picnic

It was getting to be that time of year once more
The leaves would soon fall, covering Mother Earth’s floor
Outside the insects chirped up quite a racket
And summer heat still wilted flowers in baskets

We just had time for a final summer party
I’d invite everyone, even Cousin Marty
Have a huge picnic down by the old swimming hole
Say a prayer before eating, for poor lost souls

I sent out nice invitations to one and all
That said, “Let’s all get together, we’ll have a ball”
Asked for RSVP’s, so I’d know what to make
The whole family said yes, we’d have fun by the lake

When the big day arrived, it was cloudy and cold
I was alone at the party, no one was bold
I felt sorry for myself, sitting there alone
Then I thought of many others, who have no home

I called the local food bank and mentioned my plight
I wanted to give them some afternoon delight
No, not the food bank, but those who were in need
Said, “Invite them to my picnic, it’s them I’ll feed.”

They came one by one, anticipating the feast,
I set everything out, then sat down on my seat,
I yelled out, “Here we go my friends, there’s food for all”
They ate until full, seems everyone heard my call

There were more to feed, but my feast was running low
When my family showed up; their kids, and food in tow
They said, “We’re finally here, you’ve been doing what?”
I smiled and said, “I fed the homeless, the whole lot”

“Well, there’s more to be fed, so get busy once more,
Auntie Anne said, “You fill the plates, the liquids I’ll pour
So we toiled away, a labor of love and caring
The best part of all, was seeing everyone sharing

I was so proud of them, my family and new friends
I loved them all, told them over and over again
I looked at them proudly with eyes now seeing
The people I loved, with all my heart, my being

Jim Dorrell
8/10/10