For Rachel, At Thirteen

In 1977, I was so broke, I could not afford to send my sister a birthday gift, so I gave her the only thing of value I could muster at the time, a heartfelt poem. She so liked it that it spawned a series that lasted an additional five years.

FOR RACHEL, AT THIRTEEN

Once upon a lonesome eve,
I sat at my typewriter
My mind was empty, my heart did grieve,
My stomach's knots grew tighter

What could I get her,
Besides a short letter?
Would that not upset her?
Could I give nothing better?

No. E'en though she my sister is,
Money had I none!
Nothing I could buy for her
To provide a speck of fun

But once a year a birthday comes,
And nothing could I spare,
All that I could give to her
Was a poem, and a prayer�

Just a short, simple poem,
And her big brother's prayers.

Reviews

[Ellen Hammond]

It seems there are a few of us dusting off some of our poetry from years ago. This is so touching that I think your sister probably cherishes it still. Such a special act of love that no money could buy. And, though we may say all we can give is a poem and a prayer, sometimes saying a prayer is the most important thing we can do for someone we love. Thanks for sharing this one, my friend.

[Lourisa]

This is so beautiful! The perfect gift.

[Gregory Hill]

I can tell it is Heartfelt. I like this poem very much, good job.