Ode to Olive K Smith

Here's a poem written by my aunt Monica Gayle in remembrance of her mother - Olive K. Smith. This was recited at Grandma's funeral last year.

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Can you see her?
Hat on head
Galoshes on feet
Secatur in hand
She has just been watering her lawn
Now she’s cutting flowers for her vases
Moving quickly as always.
Can you see her?
Smile if you can.

Can you see her?
At her bedside
She is at her morning devotion
Just read her Bible
Now she’s singing a hymn
Can you see her?
Smile if you can.

Can you see her on marketing day?
Getting into that white VW
Do you hear the horn
She’s back.
Can you see her?
Smile if you can.

Can you see her in Sunday dress?
Head tilted; just so
And that elegant walk
Can you see her?
Smile if you can.

Can you see her on her verandah?
She’s reading
There’s the newspaper
She’s read it
She’s doing the crosswords
Can you see her?

Can you see her?
Can you see that pleased smile
Feel her contentment
The grand-children must be there
And the great-grand….the whole family in fact.
Can you see her?
Smile if you can.

Do you see her?
In front of the TV
It’s cricket season, you see
Did you see her move her hand that fast
Was she about to bowl, bat, or catch?
That’s just excitement!
Six runs!! Did you hear her laugh?
Smile if you can.

Mother, nurturer, sister, friend
Now you’ve come to your journey’s end
Memories so dear you leave behind
So many precious gifts come to mind
Teaching by example was your general rule
Except when necessity made the belt your tool
Faith and courage saw you through
Honour and dignity were your hallmarks too
Wisdom distilled from your father Ben
Showed you how and what and when
Filling up vases, your purpose fulfilled
What a legacy on which to build!
We come to celebrate you this day
A life lived, that was more than okay.
Smile if you can.

Thank you Olive Kathleen. I love you. Godspeed. Rest in Peace.

Monica Gayle