Once upon a time... many long years ago
You touched a little girl's heart more than you could know.
You gave her precious memories that never did depart.
Those memories were engraved deep within her heart.
As the years kept rolling by she wanted to get in touch
To let you know the memories she cherished so very much.
But her family moved away, completely out of state,
She'd never get to tell you, seemed to be her fate...
Miss Helen was the teacher at Koch Ridge School.
She boarded with my folks, as a general rule.
One Friday afternoon I got a big surprise;
I was so happy - tears were filling up my eyes.
I was going home with Miss Helen for the whole week end.
And that is where I met a kind and gentle friend...
I don't remember every thing about that week end
But I do remember quite well; this gentle, caring friend.
I'd never had jewelry, so I was happy as could be
Cause you made a charm-bracelet and gave it to me.
That was the most wonderful gift I could ever hope to own
And I cherished that special bracelet long after I was grown.
My memory isn't clear how this next thing came to be,
But you were going to church and you were taking ME.
"Take good care of her," was your sister's final warning.
Then you and I rode horseback to church that Sunday morning.
You told me to stay put - while you tie-up the horse
But I was independent so I didn't listen, of course!
I eased off the horse, but my bottom went splat!
And there in a mud puddle is where I had sat!
I was so ashamed for being such an ornery squirt,
As you quickly rushed to me, to see if I was hurt.
I hadn't minded you and I expected you would scold,
Cause I should have obeyed, just as I had been told...
But you were so gentle as you cleaned me up, near new.
Then you said, "Now that's fine, it'll surely have to do"
We went into the church, and no one seemed to mind
That little smears of mud were still on my behind.
I don't expect you to remember - the bracelet, the mud, or ME.
But, sharing these fond memories fills my heart with glee!
Sometimes we leave a mark which doesn't really show;
A memory embedded deep and we never even know.
Yes, just an act of kindness can deeply touch a heart;
Leaving a profound impression that will never ever part.
Now, if you don't remember me - it really is no sin...
I love you for the kind person that you have always been!
I pray the Lord will BLESS you for the tenderness you have shown
As He showers His LOVE upon you much greater than you've ever known!
Mary Katherine Kohl
2-2-2001
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How "Once Upon A Time" Came To Be
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