Memorizing

A long time ago, I found a book in my Dad's library by Elbert Hubbard called, White Hyacinths (1907). In the front flap of the book was this verse, "If I had but two loaves of bread, I would sell one of them, and buy White Hyacinths to feed my soul." When I told my friend, Bill Hamm, that verse, he immediately recited, "If of fortune be bereft, And in thy store there be but left, Two loaves, sell one and with the dole, Buy hyacinths to feed thy soul." It was evident he had memorized it when he was young, probably in grade school. (Poem attributed to James Terry White.) I don't know how many times we repeated that poem together during those days when he was in Hospice, but there seemed to be a soothing presence when it was recited.

Our minds have a great capacity to hold many things in memory. My personal feeling is that we do not utilize that ability enough anymore and that if we would, we might find great joy, healing, or calm. Memorizing isn't required much anymore as it once was during school days, however, with intention, it's never too late to start.

Thanks for listening.