Follow The Signs

I had no plans when I started out
Just following the signs.
I made my day a series of
Amazingly crooked lines.

I wandered down some country lanes
That I'd not seen before.
Under some trees, 'round a hidden bend,
I came to my first little door.

On the door hung a gilded sign that read
"Step in for a cup of tea."
I stepped inside this enchanted place
And its magic was wrapped around me.

There were teapots and cozies and china cups,
All colours and every size,
Set up and waiting with fragrant brews,
A delight to my curious eyes.

A voice rang out and I looked around
To the smile of a wise old crone.
She said, "Welcome dear. Please choose a cup.
It's so good not to be alone."

She poured the tea as she spoke to me,
Telling about the past.
Enthralled, I listened avidly.
Hours passed. When I left at last,

She walked me to her door and said,
"Just follow the signs on the road.
For further down is a shop you must see.
They call it the Wandering Toad."

When I found that shop nestled in the woods,
I read "Wandering Toad's Memories".
I walked inside to a curio place.
A gentleman said, "Enter, please.

Look around. Please take your time.
When you're done I will tell you a tale."
I gazed in awe at a glimmering shield
And a matching coat of mail.

Then I gasped in delight when I found a room
Full of carvings and books galore.
I whiled away my afternoon
In this marvelous little store.

So, I urge you friends, just to take one day
Where nothing special is planned.
Start following signs and, like me, you'll find
There's magic upon the land.

© 2002 Pam H. Murray


May 30, 2002