Jo Lou

At last a little happiness
For challenged sweet Jo Lou.
He didn't mind she was different
For he was different too.

This tiny maiden lady was
The first time on her own.
Her mama taken from her, left
Her exposed and alone.

Her only brother tried to help,
He said he'd take her in.
She begged him to give her the chance
A new life to begin.

She loved her new apartment in
This place that offered care
And yet gave her independence.
She could be happy there.

She found a gentle friend like her
Who too had been forlorn.
They watched TV together, shared
A bowl of fresh popped corn.

She was born into a family
Replete with lovely cousins.
The babe, Jo Lou, was lovely too,
Another among dozens.

Her mother noticed first of course,
So late to sit, to talk to walk.
Her loved ones milled around her
Daring anyone to mock.

The doctor finally told her mom,
"I'm sorry she is spastic."
This lovely child who seldom cried
With smile that was fantastic.

Her parents went from place to place
Wanting a better answer.
The verdict was more of the same.
She'll never be a dancer.

Her arms and legs refused to be
Guided by her strong will.
She struggled just to say a word
Or do a basic skill.

Her intellect was quite intact
Her sense of humor too,
But every act so much harder
Than it is for me and you.

She had her bit of freedom
Before being called away.
An angel came to take her home.
Jo Lou's dancing today.

Joyce 02/29/04