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Open Poetry #17
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Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep
| Open Poetry #17 |
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Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep |
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Kit McCallum
Administrator
Member Laureate
since 2000-04-30
Posts 14774Ontario, Canada 
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Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep A little boy, not more than six, was kneeling by his bed, His mother sat beside him, silently, and stroked his head; She listened as he said his prayers, he started earnestly, With "Now I lay me down to sleep …" such passion in his plea. He whispered, "God bless mommy, and my gramma and my gramps," "Please God, bless Rover, Johnny, and my uncles and my aunts"; "And God if you can hear me, bless my daddy and his friends." "He's far away, I miss him so … protect him, thanks! Amen." His mother smiled and tucked him in, he looked at her and said, "Hey mom … do you think God is listening?" … then she turned her head; She could not look him in the eye, she'd had her doubts of late, Too many worries on her mind ... she struggled with her faith. "I'm sure He is, my little one … He's busy though, now sleep." "It's time to dream, so close your eyes …" Then kissed him on the cheek; "Goodnight." he called, "Sweet dreams," she said, "I'll see you in a while." He curled up with his little dog ... she closed the door, and smiled. He woke with great excitement, it was Saturday today, He ate his breakfast, kissed his mom, then headed out to play. He had a grand idea, he would try to reach the clouds, And talk to God in person … where there were not any crowds. He looked around to find a way, and tried all different means, He climbed a tree, tried wooden stilts ... then spied his trampoline. "Aha!" he squealed, "That's it!" and ran to scramble on the mat, "I'll be back soon." he said to Rover, with a friendly pat. He started bouncing, braced his knees and pushed with all his might, Then up and down, and up he went … each time he gained more height! Now up and down, and up again, he flew into the air, Jumped higher, higher, till he yelled, "Hey God … are you up here?" But nothing - total silence … still he bounced with all his strength, He must have jumped a half a mile, he figured at the length! Young Rover barked and paced each time he came back down to land, Then up again he flew, till suddenly … a change of plan! Instead of coming down this time, an eagle grabbed his coat, Her mighty wings supporting him, to keep the boy afloat; He watched his house get smaller as they soared along the wind, They dipped and swayed, he dangled there, then smiled and gave a grin. "Hey God … are you up here?" he yelled, so high up in the sky … But frightened by his voice, the mighty eagle gave a cry! Her grip came loose, she dropped his coat, he fell toward the ground, Then plunk! His fall was stopped … he held on tight, and looked around. He hovered there, so peacefully … was cushioned by his fall, He'd landed on a big balloon, a giant nylon ball! He heard the "whoosh" as hot air forced him high into the air, He tried again and gave a yell, "Hey God … are you up here?" Just then, a gust of wind came by and tossed him to and fro, He lost his balance, slid right off, and headed down below! The people in the basket shrieked as he went tumbling by, It wasn't every day they saw a boy fall from the sky! He toppled down until "kerplunk" … he felt the cold of steel, The wind was rushing past, but he held on there as he kneeled; He'd landed on a plane - the right hand wing to be exact, And waved to all the passengers, through windows looking back. The engine roared, he yelled aloud, "Hey God … are you up here?" Then felt his grip begin to loosen … felt a twinge of fear; He started spinning, lost control, fell down beyond the plane, Then landed on a fluffy cloud, and hollered out again. "Hey God … are you up here?" he called, as silence filled the air, Until a brilliant light appeared … he gave a sigh and stared; He heard a voice and felt a presence, just across the way … "My child, I'm always listening … all you have to do is pray." "But God," he said with innocence, "You never answer me!" "How come I never hear you down below this easily?" "You have to listen closely child," the voice replied to him, "Just watch for signs and listen to your heart … I'm there within." The brilliant light began to fade, the cloud beneath transformed, The fluffy wisps of white turned into wings as angels formed; The one in front held out her hands … he walked toward her side, Her feathers glistened … golden sparkles glowed from deep inside. She gathered him into her arms, her wings spanned twenty feet, And off they flew from heaven down, toward his little street; She tucked him gently back in bed, and hovered for a while, He talked with her, as Rover watched the angel's gentle smile. His mother heard a sound upstairs … she checked the time and balked, An hour had passed … she'd best peek in, according to the clock! She tiptoed up the stairs and heard him chatting gleefully, She opened up the door and peeked inside so quietly. Her son was sitting up in bed, and talking to the wall, The dog was gazing that way too … as if he was enthralled; Her son was grinning … "Come in mom, and meet my newest friend!" She sighed, and said, "There's no one there … now lie back down in bed." "But mom," he uttered frantically, "I talked to God today!" Then told his mom of his adventure, chattering away; She listened as he told his tale, then said, "She's here right now?" "Right there!" he pointed happily … she wrinkled up her brow. She laughed and said, "With wings that size, she must be pretty tall!" "And golden sparkles? My, oh my!" she glanced toward the wall; With that, she tucked him in and turned, as he began to cry … "It's just a dream," she said to him, "Now close your weary eyes." "But honest mom … God said to me he listens every day." "I guess you haven't seen the signs the way I did today." "Goodnight, my dear." she chuckled and turned off the light to go, But something caught her eye beneath his bed … a little glow. She reached below the box spring, gave a gasp as she withdrew …..... A single feather, glowing brightly … sparkles through and through. /Kit McCallum [This message has been edited by Kit McCallum (edited 11-28-2001).] |
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| © Copyright 2001 Kit McCallum - All Rights Reserved | |||
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Startime Member Ascendant
since 2000-10-03
Posts 5918Canada |
Absolutely stunning. I love it!!!! I love it!!!! The tears flowed so freely while I read this masterpiece. BRAVO!!!!  Love I leave with you whether it is in your life now or yet the essense of your dreams. |
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RosePetal 
since 2001-08-26
Posts 2985South Florida |
Oh my! I loved this! You drew me in from the first line. This was beautiful. Yes, God is always listening even when we think he is not! Thank you for sharing this, I'm going to save it in my library to look at again and again! Nice Work Kit! Love, RP |
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Amused Cupid Junior Member
since 2001-10-24
Posts 40 |
Wow, this is fabulous, a touching and most welcome journey you have brought me through. Thank you. |
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Enchantress Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113Canada eh. |
She reached below the box spring, gave a gasp as she withdrew …..... A single feather, glowing brightly … sparkles through and through. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Kit I am at a total loss for words at this moment. I do not know when I have ever been moved so much by a piece in Passions. THIS is EXQUISITE!! A masterpiece! Incredible write dear poetess! ~hugs and may God Bless you, Nancy~ ~Time has cast a spell on you, |
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Elizabeth
Moderator
Member Ascendant
since 1999-06-07
Posts 6871Minnesota |
Sometimes we all need a reminder....well done Kit!  God bless America, my home sweet home. |
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jwesley Member Rara Avis
since 2000-04-30
Posts 7563Spring, Texas |
Very, very touching tale Kit - really enjoyed reading it. It all boils down to faith doesn't it, and seeing the little things - those answers He always gives in subtle ways. jwesley |
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Gentle Spirit Member Patricius
since 2000-10-09
Posts 13989 |
Kit this was incredible.......just.......... INCREDIBLE!!!! Like the sweetest of dreams for a child, and the giver of hope for those whose faith is waining, this is inspiring. This is an inspiration to us all Kit. I'm gushing.....but this truly is wonderful. (can you teach me to do this.....*winks*) Only you.....could do this. *s* On the wings of words our spirits fly....and our souls are free. |
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Seymour Tabin Member Empyrean
since 1999-07-07
Posts 31720Tamarac Fla |
Dear Kit, Your talent is really showing in this one. Beautifully written and presented. *L* |
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RSWells Member Elite
since 2001-06-17
Posts 2533 |
Indeed quite a journey and worth the read...enjoyed. |
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Mysteria
since 2001-03-07
Posts 18328British Columbia, Canada |
Well Kit, I loved this story, and I know it is going to be read aloud to a lot of people between now and Christmas that is for sure. This was absolutely incredible, and a much needed reminder for everyone. I read this out loud tonight as there are young ladies at my home this evening from Big Sisters. I thought you would like to know that you received applause, and Kit, you deserve it! Thank you for this it was a spectacular story. ~*~ Carpe' Diem ~*~ |
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JamesMichael Member Empyrean
since 1999-11-16
Posts 33336Kapolei, Hawaii, USA |
Kit you are a very imagitive writer...James |
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Tracey Member Elite
since 2001-08-29
Posts 2808where insanity meets breeding |
You do tell the most amazing stories Kit. So beautiful, so well written, and so charming. Your talent never ceases to amaze me. If she who dies with the most toys wins, then can I have some toy boys please? |
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Eloise Senior Member
since 1999-11-27
Posts 1096Wyoming |
A standing ovation!  This was so enchanting Kit. I was captivated from start to finish. I always enjoy your work. |
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Janet Marie Member Laureate
since 2000-01-22
Posts 18554 |
Oh girlie...you are the ArchAngel of rhyme divine.... this needs to be put in a children's bedtime storybook and illustrated.. YOU ROCK Kit!! Goddess of cadence  very impressive level of inspire poetess groovy-gator *L*   |
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Balladeer
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA |
Oh, I HATE it when you prove me wrong!  I was certain it was impossible to admire you any more than I did....and now you do this! You are wonderful, Kit, in every way. Your poetry is so masterful, your imagination second to none, and your inner beauty shines in everything you do. I remain in awe.....  |
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Krawdad Member Elite
since 2001-01-03
Posts 2597 |
Quite a ride, Kit! Nicely done story. |
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Balladeer
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA |
...and, Janet Marie? That is one HEAVENLY angel!!!  |
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Rick Member Elite
since 2001-06-21
Posts 2903Victoria, Australia |
Dear Kit, it is not often that I totally enjoy a read as I did this one, it was very uplifting for me as well as emotional. You have wonderful talents which we are all blessed by. I am sure you have made all think about faith, of the mother who needed the reminder, of the son who needed an answer. You have placed the hand of God within us all, Thank you. Truly loved it Kit. Till again. Sincerely Rick |
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nakdthoughts Member Laureate
since 2000-10-29
Posts 19200Between the Lines |
He had a grand idea, he would try to reach the clouds, And talk to God in person … where there wasn't any crowds... I agree with Rick..a very touching write. *s ~Wynter "For it was not into my ear you whispered, but into my heart. |
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2dalimit Member Elite
since 2000-02-08
Posts 2228Mississippi coast |
"Just watch for signs and listen to your heart … I'm there within." Only you can create such a touching story to reveal a godly message. Thanks for sharing. Melton |
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Fee Member
since 2000-08-07
Posts 381Melbourne, Australia |
I am speachless, covered in goose bumps, tears streaming down my face. You are just so right and you are truely an angel sent to us to brighten our lives. No words I could say at the moment would begin to touch on the perfect peice you shared. You truely are a gift. Warmest of hugs to you. Expressions, |
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Elizabeth Santos Member Rara Avis
since 1999-11-08
Posts 9269Pennsylvania |
Kit THis is so beautifully written You are a great story teller and poet I was enchanted from beginning to end Thank you for sharing your wonderful imagination and your talents Liz |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Long ago I was told, always believe in your dog, your cat, and your child... and this is why... |
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bslicker
since 2000-12-04
Posts 2321state of mind |
Oh what a great story! Just so unbelievable how well i could picture all this. library it goes! with exclamations!!!!!!!!!! Ok Kit turn my day into one of those !!!! days!!!!! Bernie A smile a day keeps the world in smile's. |
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SEA
Moderator
Member Seraphic
since 2000-01-18
Posts 22676with you |
you gave me goose bumps from head to toe! This should be made into a children's book!! It's perfect Kit. I love this "If your ship doesn't come in, swim out to it." ~Jonathan Winters |
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Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Kit, One more keeper in the box. And how true a tale it is. Masterfully done. Thank you, thank you. Sin isn't fair, but God got even, grace isn't fair either. larry c |
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Kit McCallum
Administrator
Member Laureate
since 2000-04-30
Posts 14774Ontario, Canada |
Thank you soooooo much for all the wonderful replies everyone! Works been keeping me busy, but I promise to come back tonight or tomorrow and thank you all individually. You are all very much appreciated! Best wishes, /Kit |
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Kit McCallum
Administrator
Member Laureate
since 2000-04-30
Posts 14774Ontario, Canada |
I apologize for taking longer than anticipated to say thank you everyone, and if you're reading ... please know that work has unfortunately kept me from reading and responding a great deal of late. I hope to find some time to catch up a bit this weekend. Thanks for being so patient and kind.  Startime: Thank you so much for this sweet response Karen, I hope you know that I'm very grateful! RosePetal: You are so right Joanna … thank you for these lovely words, they are very much appreciated! Amused Cupid: Welcome to Passions Amused Cupid, thank you for this delightful comment! Enchantress: Thanks so much for this wonderful encouragement Nancy, I'm so glad I was able to touch you in this way! Elizabeth: So true Elizabeth … and I try to remind myself daily, many thanks! Jwesley: It does all boil down to faith and the subtle signs to watch for, thanks for enjoying Jwesley! Gentle Spirit: This is such an uplifting reply Gentle Spirit … thank you for summarizing this so beautifully, and for the incredible encouragement, much appreciated! Seymour Tabin: Awww, thank you Sy … that truly means a great deal to me. Big hugs! RSWells: I'm glad you enjoyed the journey Richard, and thank you for letting me know you enjoyed this piece! Much appreciated! Mysteria: I read these responses the other day, but wasn't able to respond earlier Sharon. Thanks so very much for letting me know about your reading. I just love it when you share these stories with the girls. You're always making "me" smile too. Thank you! JamesMichael : I think it comes from a very imaginative Grandpa James, LOL. He always loved to weave a tale. Many thanks! Tracey: What a lovely response Tracey .. thank you so much for these kind words. They are so very much appreciated! Eloise: It's wonderful to see you again Eloise! I'm so glad you enjoyed, and thank you for these lovely words! Janet Marie: You sweetie JM … only "you" could find the most perfect images to tuck into this story. Thank you so much for your beautiful words, and for taking the time to place the angels here within the thread. They are just perfect! Big hugs to you! Balladeer: You are so kind to me Michael … I do hope you know how very much your encouragement means to me, and thank you for being such a wonderful source of inspiration ... both as a friend, and a mentor. Big hugs to you! Krawdad: I'm glad you enjoyed the ride Krawdad … your kind thoughts are so very much appreciated! Rick: I'm so glad you found this piece emotive and uplifting Rick. You have summarized this beautifully. Thanks for this lovely response, I am very grateful to you! Nakdthoughts: Thanks so much for these kind words Maureen, and for letting me know you enjoyed this piece … much appreciated! 2dalimit: Thank you Melton, for these sweet words and encouragement. I very much appreciate this! Hugs. Fee: Your words most certainly did touch me Fee, and I thank you for this wonderfully uplifting reply. Big hugs! Elizabeth Santos: I'm so glad you enjoyed this piece Liz … your reply warmed my heart, sweet poet. Thank you for this! Sunshine: And this is why we are so much alike Karilea … I believe the same things my friend. Thank you for enjoying! Bslicker: Thank you so much for letting me know you could picture this through the read Bernie. I find it difficult sometimes to know if it's going to come across well visually, and I'm grateful to hear this … much appreciated! SEA: I'm glad I was able to pass along some goose bumps for you Susan … what a wonderful thing to hear, thank you! Larry C: Thanks you so much for these kind thoughts Larry, and for letting me know that you enjoyed … very much appreciated! Much appreciation to you all, /Kit |
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oh2beme Member
since 2000-07-24
Posts 215NV USA |
WOW!!!!!!! Thank you for the adventure in the sky. You always do provide an excellent journey, but this one beats all. Tears began to fill my eyes as I heard the lil boy pray, For in his room the presence of the angel was felt that day. He is correct in saying "God listens every day" As long as we can listen too and not forget to pray. I have had this mother's feelings as of late and really enjoyed the emotion contained within.....GREAT JOB Kit, very well done!!!!! |
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Zukene_Chic Member
since 2001-09-26
Posts 152Cali |
WOW! That was truly amazing! And adorable, and spiffy, and any other word you can think of!!! *Huggles* I LOVED THAT! |
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SmartChick Member Rara Avis
since 2001-09-23
Posts 7081On A Journey To The Unknown |
Oh, I just love this. I enjoy reading everything you write. You are a wonderful poet. |
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Midnitesun
since 2001-05-18
Posts 28647Gaia |
When she reached under the bed and held that feather, I smiled at the perfect ending to a perfectly wonderful bedtime story. |
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Mistletoe Angel
since 2000-12-17
Posts 32816Portland, Oregon |
 (tears fall down my cheeks) BRAVO, KIT, BRAVO!!! GOD BLESS YOU AND THIS BEAUTIFUL TOUCHING VERSE!!! (big hugggssssss) I cried all throughout this beautiful innocent poem of love and faith to God. Bless that sweet little boy's loving heart and your loving heart to capture such a vision! (smiles) I love you, sweet friend! (kiss on cheek) You have such a beautiful heart, sweet Kit, thank you for sharing! May love and light always shine upon you! Love, Noah Eaton |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
Kit...I wish I was a children's book publisher...this would be perfect. A tender, touching story..full of fun and wisdom..Just loved it!!!! |
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misguided angel Member
since 2001-11-23
Posts 106Australia |
Oh Kit, this is so tender and sweet. A rare gem. I agree with the others......publish! Andrea Summon the courage to step out of your familiar rut and suddenly many of those things which held you back will no longer have the power to do so. |
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Denise
Moderator
Member Seraphic
since 1999-08-22
Posts 22648 |
This is absolutely precious, Kit! I love these story poems of yours! |
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Kit McCallum
Administrator
Member Laureate
since 2000-04-30
Posts 14774Ontario, Canada |
oh2beme: Oh, I can't thank you enough for such a beautiful response Oh2beme … this went straight to my heart … thank you! Zukene_Chic: Welcome to Passion Zukene_Chic! Thank you so much for this wonderful reply, I very much appreciate your thoughts! SmartChick: I'm so glad you enjoyed this piece SmartChick, thank you for these kind words, I am very grateful! Midnitesun: What a wonderful thing to hear … thank you for letting me know how you enjoyed the ending Midnitesun … I loved hearing that! Mistletoe Angel: You are such a sweetheart Noah … thank you soooo much for your always kind and thoughtful responses. You deserve a great big hug! Martie: If you were a children's publisher Martie, then I'd have a LOT of questions for you. I've been trying to learn about publishing, but each time I get rolling, I get swamped at work or hopelessly frustrated, and put my thoughts away, LOL. Thank you for these kind words though, I really do appreciate it. Maybe someday? misguided angel: Thank you so much for these lovely sentiments Andrea .. they are very much appreciated! Denise: I'm glad you enjoy the story poems Denise … I think I have the most fun writing these ones too. Thanks so much for letting me know. Much appreciation to all, /Kit |
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