Dorothy’s Place – My Friend Mildred

Getting ready for a Thanksgiving column, I was searching through my files for a copy of a humorous recipe I have for cooking a turkey with wine. Instead I came upon a copy of a poem written a few years ago by my friend Mildred Shaw. I think it gives us better cause to pause to consider our reasons to be thankful.
Exact dates escape me, but about 8 or 10 years ago Mildred, then in her 80s, suddenly became quite ill. She was admitted to the local hospital for tests to determine the reason. While there she began experiencing vision problems. They transported her to an eye center to diagnose the cause. While there she lost her sight, never to regain it.
A short time later, while acclimating to her life in darkness, she composed the following poem for her friends.
How Thankful You Should Be
I cannot see the morning sun, I cannot see when day is done.
I cannot see the clear blue sky, Nor the billowing clouds as they roll by.
I cannot see the tall green trees, Nor beautiful leaves swaying in the breeze.
I cannot see huge, rugged mountains, With rivers, streams, and flowing fountains.
I cannot see birds, not even a pair, Nor can I see flocks in the air.
I cannot see houses or buildings tall, Nor can I see the great big mall.
I cannot see the clothes I wear, I hope there’s no spot or tear.
I cannot see shoes on my feet, But do my best to show up neat.
Sometimes my shoes are a mismatched pair, The loss of eyesight just isn’t fair.
I hope my hair is fixed all right, So I do not look a fright.
I put some make-up on my face, And hope I don’t look a disgrace.
I cannot see food upon my plate, Something there I might really hate.
No notes or letters can I write, I’ve really tried with all my might.
I cannot see to cook or sew, Alas that is my tale of woe.
I cannot drive my car, Without my sight I cannot go far.
Without a friend I cannot walk, Without a friend I cannot talk.
Make a call, pick up your phone, So blind friends won’t feel so all alone.

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