I have been working on my families genealogy recently. More specifically, my mothers paternal line. I came across a poem in my Great-Grandmothers belongings with the title "The Bible in the Schools." Her children would have been in the schools in Altoona, PA in the 1920's and '30's so I don't know when she wrote this down or who the author is. I found it poignant to know that the Bible was taken out of the schools so long ago and it was something my great-grandmother felt passionate about.
I'd like to see the Bible placed
where the Bible used to be,
Upon the top of the teacher's desk-
For every child to see.
I'd like to hear the teacher say
As my teachers used to do
Before we work or play, dear ones,
I want to read to you.
I'd like to see the teachers stand
Before the class again
and list with reverent care "the Book"
That makes God's purpose plain
And 'ere the youngsters went to work
I'd like to hear her voice
Repeat those words of truth and faith
That makes one's soul rejoice.
I'd like to see her face light up
At each resplendent work,
And watch the children's souls shine out
At the message they had heard
I'd like to see the sweet content
Fill that dear room, each nook,
And know that joy had come to each
When teacher read "the Book."
Yes, I'd like to see the Bible placed
where the Bible use to be,
I'd like to hear it read aloud-
In the school room of the free.
I want my children taught to know
God's matchless fit of love
The Book of Books is wisdom's gate
To that bright home above.
-Author Unknown
Down the right hand side of the paper, she has several notes written:
- very fitting in this day
- I hope to see the day when I'll see the Bible where it used to be -
- Avalanche of mail on this subject to the White House
- Most real Americans and Christians realize that crime has risen by leaps and bounds since the Bible reading and prayer have been taken out of the schools.
- God's name in vain all most children hear these days
- Prayer
- With God, all things are possible.
2 comments:
I love finding things like that in my search to discover my family. It gives such insight into their thoughts and convictions. It's sad things are no better all these years later. I love the poem. Your GGma is beautiful...you favor her. Thanks for sharing this.
OHH...me gusta. Grandma Ruth was awesome! That is way cool. I'm glad that you have these things and not Grandma. You should see the way she handles Uncle Jack's old things...it's frightening! We need to clandestinely remove all important items from her house while she's sleeping, lol.
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