THE CORNER 4 WOMEN

Saturday 22 June 2024

"THE LEGLESS BEGGAR"

"THE LEGLESS BEGGAR" (author unknown)

One day, a rich kid was walking with his dad when he saw an old legless beggar on the street, begging for alms. The boy stopped his dad immediately and walked up to the disabled beggar.

"Hey sir, can I ask you a question?" he asked him.

"Yes you can" the old man replied.

Then the boy said.

"What happened to your legs? Why are they missing?"

A look of shame showed on the dad's face as he whispered into his son's ears.

"Hey, you should never ask people inappropriate questions"

The old man heard it. He paused for a moment, then said to the little boy.

"Can I tell you a short story?"

The boy nodded his head. Then old man said.

"It's a true story about a young boy, and you should pay keen attention"

"Okay"

The old man started speaking.

"There was a boy who had a donkey he loved so much. He called him Banjo, and he was his best companion. One day, he went to bathe in the river and had taken the donkey with him for a bath. Unfortunately, a huge crocodile suddenly leaped out of the water and grabbed the donkey, dragging him deep in the water. The boy couldn't save his donkey. He screamed so hard as he watched poor Banjo being killed. He became so angry like a volcano. Burning with anger, he must wreak vengeance, so he jumped into the river to fight the ferocious crocodile. But it didn't turn out good as another crocodile attacked the boy and started devouring him... The end"

Having listened to the story, the kid wagged his head, then asked.

"So, what happened to the boy afterwards? Or was he also killed?"

The old man paused for a moment, then said.

"Over the years, that boy has grown into an old man and he is now me. I just told you a story about myself, thereby answering your question. I survived but lost both legs from the incident"

Both the father and son were marvelled. Then the old beggar concluded.

"My story has a powerful lesson about anger and revenge, you should take away. You should learn to control your anger, or else you would be pushed to inflict vengeance, which would not only hurt others, but also yourself. I was so angry and desperate, I wanted that revenge so bad that I didn't realize how stupid I was. Anger can make you take stupid actions that you would live forever to regret. You see, if I had controlled my anger and walked home after the crocodile ate my donkey, I wouldn't be the 'legless beggar' you see today. It's important you learn to forgive those who hurt you, and move on with your life. Not because they deserve it, but because you deserve peace.

Brought to you by https://thecorner4women.com together with our sister website http://www.nicheebookcollections.com and our growing e-book library available FREE, through our Newsletter sign up page here:-

https://tc4women.nicheebookcollections.com/NEWSLETTER-EBOOK-LIBRARY-SIGNUP.html We now have over 1900 e-books on our library shelves for your reading pleasure, so do come along and check us out.

More articles by Su DeNyme (our resident writer) & John A Elliott are available here: https://www.nicheebookcollections.com/TC4W/ARTICLES.html

"A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE"

"A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE" (author unknown)

A brother and sister had made their usual hurried, obligatory pre-Christmas visit to the little farm where dwelt their elderly parents with their small herd of horses. The farm was where they had grown up and it had been named Lone Pine Farm because of the huge pine, which topped the hill behind the farmhouse. Through the years the tree had become a talisman to the old man and his wife, and a landmark in the countryside. The young siblings had fond memories of their childhood here, but the city hustle and bustle added more excitement to their lives, and called them away to a different life.

The old folks no longer showed the horses, for the years had taken their toll, and getting out to the barn on those frosty mornings was getting harder, but it gave them a reason to get up in the mornings and a reason to live. They sold a few foals each year, and the horses were their reason for joy in the morning and contentment at day's end.

Angry, as they prepared to leave, the young couple confronted the old folks "Why do you not at least dispose of The Old One." She is no longer of use to you. It's been years since you've had foals from her. You should cut corners and save so you can have more for yourselves. How can this old worn out horse bring you anything but expense and work? Why do you keep her anyway?"

The old man looked down at his worn boots, holes in the toes, scuffed at the barn floor and replied, " Yes, I could use a pair of new boots."

His arm slid defensively about the Old One's neck as he drew her near. With gentle caressing he rubbed her softly behind her ears. He replied quietly, "We keep her because of love. Nothing else, just love."

Baffled and impatient, the young folks wished the old man and his wife a Merry Christmas and headed back toward the city as darkness stole through the valley.

The old couple shook their heads in sorrow that it had not been a happy visit. A tear fell upon their cheeks. How is it that these young folks do not understand the peace of the love that filled their hearts?

So it was, that because of the unhappy leave-taking, no one noticed the smell of the insulation smouldering on the frayed wires in the old barn. None saw the first spark fall. None but the "Old One".

In a matter of minutes, the whole barn was ablaze and the hungry flames were licking at the loft full of hay. With a cry of horror and despair, the old man shouted to his wife to call for help as he raced to the barn to save their beloved horses. But the flames were roaring now, and the blazing heat drove him back. He sank sobbing to the ground, helpless before the fire's fury. His wife back from calling for help cradled him in her arms, clinging to each other, they wept at their loss.

By the time the fire department arrived, only smoking, glowing ruins were left, and the old man and his wife, exhausted from their grief, huddled together in front of the barn. They were speechless and stunned as they rose from the cold snow covered ground. They nodded thanks to the firemen as there was nothing anyone could do now. The old man turned to his wife, resting her white head upon his shoulder as his shaking old hands clumsily dried her tears with a frayed red bandana. Brokenly he whispered, "We have lost much, but God has spared our home on this eve of Christmas. Let us gather strength and climb the hill to the old pine where we have sought comfort in times of despair. We will look down upon our home and give thanks to God that it has been spared and pray for our beloved most precious gifts that have been taken from us.

And so, he took her by the hand and slowly helped her up the snowy hill as he brushed aside his own tears with the back of his old, withered hand.

The journey up the hill was hard for their old bodies in the steep snow. As they stepped over the little knoll at the crest of the hill, they paused to rest, looking up to the top of the hill, the old couple gasped and fell to their knees in amazement at the incredible beauty before them.

Seemingly, every glorious, brilliant star in the heavens was caught up in the glittering, snow-frosted branches of their beloved pine, and it was aglow with heavenly candles. And poised on its top- most bough, a crystal crescent moon glistened like spun glass Never had a mere mortal created a Christmas tree such as this. They were breathless as the old man held his wife tighter in his arms.

Suddenly, the old man gave a cry of wonder and incredible joy. Amazed and mystified, he took his wife by the hand and pulled her forward. There, beneath the tree, in resplendent glory, a mist hovering over and glowing in the darkness was their Christmas gift. Shadows glistening in the night light.

Bedded down around the "Old One" close to the trunk of the tree, was the entire herd, safe.

At the first hint of smoke, she had pushed the door ajar with her muzzle and had led the horses through it. Slowly and with great dignity, never looking back, she had led them up the hill, stepping cautiously through the snow. The foals were frightened and dashed about. The skittish yearlings looked back at the crackling, hungry flames, and tucked their tails under them as they licked their lips and hopped like rabbits. The mares that were in foal with a new years crop of babies, pressed uneasily against the "Old One" as she moved calmly up the hill to safety beneath the pine. And now she lay among them and gazed at the faces of the old man and his wife.

Those she loved she had not disappointed. Her body was brittle with years, tired from the climb, but the golden eyes were filled with devotion as she offered her gift ---LOVE. Because of love. Only Because of love.

Tears flowed as the old couple shouted their praise and joy... And again the peace of love filled their hearts.

https://tc4women.nicheebookcollections.com/NEWSLETTER-EBOOK-LIBRARY-SIGNUP.html We now have over 1900 e-books on our library shelves for your reading pleasure, so do come along and check us out.

More articles by Su DeNyme (our resident writer) & John A Elliott are available here: https://www.nicheebookcollections.com/TC4W/ARTICLES.html

"SHARING SECRETS" by Joanne Boyle

"SHARING SECRETS"
by Joanne Boyle

We shared so many secrets,

I'd listen and you'd tell.

I would lift my paw to yours

when you weren't feeling well.

I would lay beside your feet

so you knew that I was near.

I would make my presence known

when I could sense your fear.

I would bring my favourite toy,

begging you to play.

I just wanted you to focus

for your mind not to stray.

I had noticed that when we walked,

your step no longer bounced

and when you threw my ball

I no longer pounced.

Still, we remained best friends,

your words into my ears

and the tongue I used so often,

to lick away your tears.

Then one day I waited,

but I knew that you were gone,

and I have all the answers,

but a voice, I have none!

********

Author Joanne Boyle Heartfelt

art by Steffi Krenzek

https://tc4women.nicheebookcollections.com/NEWSLETTER-EBOOK-LIBRARY-SIGNUP.html We now have over 1900 e-books on our library shelves for your reading pleasure, so do come along and check us out.

More articles by Su DeNyme (our resident writer) & John A Elliott are available here: https://www.nicheebookcollections.com/TC4W/ARTICLES.html

"WITHOUT YOU" by Joanne Boyle

"WITHOUT YOU" by Joanne Boyle

I try not to think

about where I would be

without you in my life

being there for me.

You gave me my friend.

You are the best I have had.

Without you I would crumble

each time I am sad.

You taught me that silence

is a peaceful place.

Without you I'd be living

in a lonely space.

You don't pass judgement

when I do things wrong.

Without you I don't believe

I'd be this strong.

You smile when I smile

and your eyes light up.

Without you I'd have

a half empty cup.

You taught me the meaning

behind a love that's true.

Home is wherever

I am with you.

**********

Author Joanne Boyle Heartfelt

art by Steffi Krenzek

https://tc4women.nicheebookcollections.com/NEWSLETTER-EBOOK-LIBRARY-SIGNUP.html We now have over 1900 e-books on our library shelves for your reading pleasure, so do come along and check us out.

More articles by Su DeNyme (our resident writer) & John A Elliott are available here: https://www.nicheebookcollections.com/TC4W/ARTICLES.html

"I WILL NEVER STOP LOVING YOU" by Joanne Boyle

"I WILL NEVER STOP LOVING YOU"
by Joanne Boyle

I looked out at the gardens.

It was a stunning view.

The sun was shining brightly.

It reminded me of you.

How long I had been sat there?

I really didn't know.

My cup was full of tears.

My thirst just wouldn't go.

I watched the flowers dancing.

I turned them into us.

My mind was playing tricks.

Like it often does.

I stared at the shadows.

Comfortable in their presence.

I shared in their stillness.

Lost in their pretence.

My memories came alive

and time would stand still.

The coffee cup I held

would always refill.

But every day you came,

just in another form.

A Robin in the tree top.

Tears from a storm.

Today was a great day.

These days were the best.

When you came as a butterfly

and joined me in my rest.

You drank away my tears,

from the table top.

I knew it was a sign.

You were telling me to stop.

"Stop crying?" I asked?

"Well I can't promise you that,

for I'll miss you forever, and

from wherever I'm sat."

The sun began moving,

Your colours shone bright.

I smiled as I remembered

how you were always right.

I will never stop loving you

or being a part of a WE

So I agreed that I'd look

for another ME.

********

Author Joanne Boyle Heartfelt

art by Steffi Krenzek

https://tc4women.nicheebookcollections.com/NEWSLETTER-EBOOK-LIBRARY-SIGNUP.html We now have over 1900 e-books on our library shelves for your reading pleasure, so do come along and check us out.

More articles by Su DeNyme (our resident writer) & John A Elliott are available here: https://www.nicheebookcollections.com/TC4W/ARTICLES.html

"WILD" by Becky Hemsley

"WILD"
by Becky Hemsley

You’re a wildflower darling

You cannot be tamed

They recognise your beauty

Though they do not know your name

You sing a song of sunshine

Befriend butterflies and bees

You dance amongst the grasses

And you sleep beneath the trees

You’re bright but unassuming

You are delicate yet tough

You’re rooted but you’re ready

For when winds of change do come

And they meet you in the forest

And they’ll marvel at the way

You remind them of their childhood

And easy, carefree days

So they’ll make of you a bracelet

And they’ll weave you through their hair

They’ll wish upon your petals

And then blow you to the air

And as they watch you fly

They’ll wish that they could fly like that

They’ll realise that you have a freedom

They have never had

So they’ll pick you for a posy

And they’ll tie you at the stem

So they can take a little bit of freedom

Home with them

But home is where the heart is

And your heart cannot be still

So home for you is not a vase

Upon a windowsill

Remember, you’re a wildflower

Born to ride the wind

To plant your roots on new horizons

Each and every spring

So don’t ignore your wild heart

‘Cause freedom’s what you breathe

See, that is why they love you so -

And why you have to leave

*******

Becky Hemsley 2022

https://www.facebook.com/talkingtothewild

Stunning artwork by martina_illustrates

‘Wild’ is part of my second collection:

https://a.co/d/89OgoD4

https://tc4women.nicheebookcollections.com/NEWSLETTER-EBOOK-LIBRARY-SIGNUP.html We now have over 1900 e-books on our library shelves for your reading pleasure, so do come along and check us out.

More articles by Su DeNyme (our resident writer) & John A Elliott are available here: https://www.nicheebookcollections.com/TC4W/ARTICLES.html

"PATCHWORK" by Becky Hemsley

"PATCHWORK"

by Becky Hemsley

Your life is like a quilt

And everybody weaves their share

Some weave huge great tapestries

And some weave tiny squares

Some squares bring you laughter

And some will bring you tears

Some are stitched and sewn by those

Who are no longer here

In places there are threads

From people choosing not to stay

And every time you touch these threads

It brings back all the pain

But every little thread

That weaves its joy and pain and fun

Has stitched a quilt together

Of the person you’ve become

And every little tiny part

Has slowly taught you how

To weave your contribution

Into the blanket you have now

So I know there are squares that comfort you

And some that you dislike

But without them all you wouldn’t have

This patchwork of your life

*******

Becky Hemsley 2020

https://www.facebook.com/talkingtothewild

Artwork by Alexander Babiy

'Patchwork' is from the book Talking to the Wild

https://a.co/d/4I7vHJl

https://tc4women.nicheebookcollections.com/NEWSLETTER-EBOOK-LIBRARY-SIGNUP.html We now have over 1900 e-books on our library shelves for your reading pleasure, so do come along and check us out.

More articles by Su DeNyme (our resident writer) & John A Elliott are available here: https://www.nicheebookcollections.com/TC4W/ARTICLES.html