Ray Maynor sent me the poem he wrote and read at Shirley's Memorial Service. I think it is beautiful and would like for our class to read it.
To Endure
Written in Fond Memory of Shirley M. Maynor, My Beloved Mother
We enter this life with everything new,
Fresh of spirit and memories few.
Some say a blank slate, not tainted or vile,
With everything ahead of us, to learn and to smile.
So even when born into this world so pure,
Why must we spend time learning to endure?
Childhood should be pleasant, and to Mom it was,
Her parents worked hard, she was happy and secure,
So for this part of her life she had no need to endure.
Other than the part of being an only child,
The trials and tribulations of learning were certainly mild,
As she learned her no’s, will nots and don’t’s,
While balancing with yes sirs and no sirs, I will and I won’t.
But as life’s many challenges were set on the stage,
And as the years slipped by her, transforming to age,
The stumbles and falls and challenges abounded,
So for every hill to climb, or corner to be rounded,
To Shirley it was part of it, so here she endured.
Mom was married young, raising three boys, every minute she labored ,was hard and consistent,
But she was always nurturing, involved, supportive, kind, and persistent.
I remember her attitude as positive and sweet,
Even when she took on a job to help ends meet.
Her head remained high, and through it all,
She worked diligently and of course, continued to endure.
She hardened but built strength, as life passed her by,
Building character and friendships that never would die.
In fact contrary and tart she acted for fun,
But in reality her love shone as bright as the sun.
So God sends us tests, and to Mom hers were many,
But the last, her downfall, was harder than any.
Storms are violent, but then they pass,
Left are blue skies and the green of the grass.
And eagles soar but at last they must land,
And as she endured, Mom touched GOD’s hand.
And now, and at last, for once and for sure....
I know through eternity, that Mom will endure.
As will my love, for all that you have been, and all that you will continue to be…
By Her Loving Son, Ray Maynor
September 28, 2010
