Graphic by MamaBear
The Memory Box
It is just inside
the attic door
a memory box
sits on the floor
I steal away
to take a break
go through the box
for memories' sake
A pair of shoes
from baby, Dawn
a pair that Sandra
left toothmarks on
Two faded dresses
and sun bonnets
hand-made cards
with Mother's Day sonnets
My eyes mist
when an envelope breaks -
sixteen candles
from my birthday cake
A yellowed yearbook
from high school days
its pages worn
with dampness and age
A toy train, a pink
teddy bear ...
I saved them all
with special care
with hope, someday
by their attic door
a memory box
will sit on the floor.
Deborah Russell, © 1981