by Miriam Boersma

The general store is there
To have it all in one place
For when you need milk
And a new toy for the kid-
Almost seven now, time flies.
He's a smart one, that boy,
Takes after his father.
Thank you, come again.

The general store is there,
In the same place every week,
With the same wares as ever.
The kid always loves this place,
With all its toys and fancy bells.
He's been under the weather,
But he'll be alright.
Thank you, come again.

The general store is there
With new toys, well made,
Some bread baked this morning,
And milk again, freshly delivered.
The kid's been doing worse,
Something extra nice for him
To lighten his spirits a bit.
Thank you, come again.

The general store is there
For when you need cigarettes
And a bottle of something strong
And no, no milk this week.
Carnations and condolences.
It's there when words aren't.
Too young, much too young.