Have you recalled the fun we had
All those long years ago? So young,
Poor, ignorant a girl, a lad–
Perhaps our song would not be sung,
Yet we would gather, drink, and play.

Not caring what the hours were,
Enjoying ourselves every day,
We danced and laughed our fears to cure.

Years have gone by and yet we know
Each time we meet our smiles will show
Awareness of what they forgave:
Real kindness, all our lives to save…

– Steve Shoemaker, Urbana, IL, December 30, 2013