These Are My JOTtings, Part #2

Twists & Turns in Life

This life is filled with twists & turns.
At first, you're going straight
through high school years of Joys and learns
to start the path, that's great!

Just when Diploma lands in palm
you're sure that all is well.
Next summer's breeze, and lazy calm
gives way to college...knell.

The days of living 'way from home
invade one's peace of mind.
My freshman year could fill a tome
with times that were unkind.

My dorm hall, near the common room,
where lord and lass would chill.
I'd leave the shower towel-groomed,
preventing a messy thrill.

For such was life in that co-ed dorm,
and just my floor was mixed.
The basement, Men, the top two swarmed
of women, floors unmixed.

I needed breakfast. Class was soon,
but hide thy untanned skin
for woe be me, if I lassies moon.
Appeal, I'd never win.

So, I was there, but just one year.
At home, the next to pray.
The third, a Bible school seemed clear
to be the Lord's best way.

But finally a preacher man
in August campmeet days
showed me the Lord's best learning plan,
where college would amaze.

I stayed five years to claim my degree,
and M-R-S to boot.
In August, married she and me,
then teaching, not much loot.

But in a year, she studied Coiffure,
and graduated well.
This path has been for her quite sure.
My path a change to tell.

For many years, her many fans
keep her in work to do.
We stay affixed for moving plans
bring sadder looks all new.

The teacher cleans the trash at night
to help his sculptress shine,
and one Day in that Land so Bright
the Truth we'll know is fine.

by Jay O’Toole
on May 6th, 2025