“When Saw We Thee…in Prison?

     I visited with a friend of mine.

It took only a tiny piece of my time.

Then I was off on my merry way,

Making plans for the rest of my busy day.

     When I was tired from the weight of my chores,

I remembered my friend who couldn’t work anymore;

 Who like a flower could only sit and wait

until someone chose to pass through the gate.

Then I found gratitude for each thing I could do,

So I cheerfully worked the whole day through.

     I made a new friend just the other day,

And was surprised to see others turn and walk away.

Later they scolded, “Her hair is a mess…

And can you believe she wears the same old dress!?!”

They thought that I was being a fool;

But in her friendship I discovered a jewel.

     Incased in a wheelchair sat a gentle man

Who dreamed of days when his life had a plan.

Then for several days a friend came to call

and recorded his experiences, large and small.

     His children will be grateful everyday

That Dad had a friend willing to pass his way

And record how Dad got through days, whether sunny or grey;

by trusting the Lord with amazing faith.

     Years ago I left this mortal life

along with my children and my wife.

It was long before the Restoration

and God’s call to gather Israel from all nations.

     The other day with the gift of technology

A dear descendant was working on family history,

And found my branch of the family tree.

Then tenderly took us through the temple doors

and made it so we can be together forever more.

    There are days when one listens to Satan’s lies;

and says, “I’ve messed up once – it won’t hurt twice.”

The times and hours and days all blend.

I become bound so tight I can see no end;

    Then someone comes along with a listening ear

And helps me remember I am still very dear

To our Father in Heaven who sent His Son

So I can repent for the wrongs I’ve done…

    Prison doors come in many forms and sizes.

They close me in and I don’t even realize;

But, whenever I help someone find the key

That will allow the prisoner to go free;

I find that prison doors are also opened for me.