These Are My JOTtings, Part #2

Piano

Soft and quiet, gentle friend
with bombastic times,
pianoforte moods do blend
in our uphill climbs.

Many years ago I took
the lessons that I'd need
to play piano by the book.
Each time I played, I'd read.

But now I'm told, "It's by the ear,"
the best of keyboard fare
is "plug and play," and "feel it clear,"
which makes me stop and stare.

They'd eat their meals, while I would play,
which part of College paid,
but this type of job is rare today.
My playing's at home stayed.

I played at church a few years past,
but not now, and I'm sad.
I pray my gift will somehow last
through Eternity's great glad.

Piano is a blessed joy,
it's ivories to gliss.
Engaging all its keys employ
makes tonal music bliss.

The world has left this instrument,
except for venues large,
where it costs much cash to rent,
the audience to charge,

but Mama's piano is with me right now.
I've played it, since quite small,
and by the Lord's most wondrous "How,"
I'll play it 'til His call.

by Jay O’Toole
on April 27th, 2023