Submitted by: Devonna Edwards

I wandered just the other day where I walked once long ago.

I strolled down by the railway track where it used to bring such joy

To sit and watch the train go by, to me it was a thrill, 

To see that old steam engine and hear the whistle shrill.

I sat down by the crossing and my heart was filled with pain, 

With memories of the days gone by and the old steam engine train.

I closed my eyes as I sat awhile and my thoughts reached back in time, 

And I dreamed I heard the train once more as she rolled on down the line.

I could hear the engine puffing as she climbed up o’er the hill,

I could hear the old steam whistle its sound was loud and shrill.

I saw the black smoke pouring from the old smoke stack once more, 

As the fireman shoveled on more coal to make those drivers roll. 

I saw the cinders flying and I heard the old bell chime, 

I could hear the steam escaping from those pistons worn with time.

She was rocking and a rolling like some monster from the past, 

She was puffing and a blowing but my vision couldn’t last.

My mind did wander back again and I realized right then, 

I only had the memories of the old steam engine train.

The stations have all disappeared, the hobos place to rest, 

No water tanks to hide behind to catch the next train west.

The iron horse has gone away only memories now remain, 

Memories of those days gone by and the Old steam engine train.

Poem by Darrell Roberts

Steam Trains are often affiliated with Christmas for many reasons, two being Nostalgia and Tradition.  It gives many people a connection with simpler times. Some people have fond memories of traveling home by train during the holidays, making them a symbol of family gatherings and festive travel.

 A Special Christmas Message

The Train of Life

At birth we boarded the train and met our parents, and we believed they will always travel by our side.

As time goes by, other people will board the train; and they will be significant; our siblings, friends, children, strangers and even the love of your life. However, at some station our parents will step down from the train, leaving us on this journey alone. Others will step down over time and leave a permanent vacuum.

Some, however, will go so unnoticed that we don’t realize they vacated their seats.

This train ride will be full of joy, sorrow, fantasy, expectations requiring that we give the best of ourselves. The mystery to everyone is: we do not know at which station we ourselves will step down.

So, we must live in the best way, love, forgive, and offer the best of who we are.

It is important to do this, because when the time comes for us to step down and leave our seat empty, we should leave behind beautiful memories for those who will continue to travel on the train of life.

I wish you a joyful journey for the coming years on your train of life. Reap success, give lots of love and be happy. Most importantly, thank God for the journey!

Author unknown 

Merry Christmas Everyone!