Scattering (jjlou7ers 
 
 PS 3539 
 .H79 S3 
 1919 
 Copy 1 
 
 bi3 
 
 Kizzie CThomburq 
 
Scattering Flowers 
 
 By 
 
 Kizzie Thornbury 
 
 CINCINNATI : 
 
 PRINTED FOR THE AUTHOR BY 
 
 THE ABINGDON PRESS 
 
,.^^ 
 
 
 Copyright, 1919, 
 
 BY 
 
 KizziE Thornbury 
 
 MO';/ 17 !9I9 
 
 ©CI.A535724 
 
Foreword 
 
 Almost one year ago I was commissioned by the Kentucky 
 Conference to serve the Methodist Episcopal folk of Pikeville. 
 Soon after arriving I was told of the exceedingly strange 
 and sad circumstances of one Sister Kizzie Thornbury. By 
 request I was directed to her home, accompanied by Mrs. 
 Ashley. We were profoundly impressed with the simplicity 
 and nobility of such a character as we found, and left that 
 little humble home that afternoon feeling almost as the 
 Translator did of Joan of Arc when he said: "Surely the 
 contrast between her and her century is the contrast between 
 night and day." As a close student of her life for these 
 months I found her to be large-natured, genuinely honset, 
 out-spoken, generous, tender as charity and without envy. 
 She has proven of invaluable aid in fighting every good fight 
 in her silent way, in the Community in which she lives, and, 
 frankly, I feel that she has nobly earned the right to be heard. 
 
 When paying my second visit in this little home, some 
 member of the family read to me a few short selections of 
 poetry which had been written by Miss Thornbury. When 
 the sister had stopped her reading I said, "Why do you not 
 have your work published?" As quick as a flash she said, 
 "They are not worth it." After hearing more of them read 
 I felt that they were "worth it," and I asked for permission 
 to have it done; so, dear reader, without any apology, for 
 such would be superfluous, but with genuine pleasure I 
 commend to you this little book of poems and testimonies, 
 with the hope that you may read it with sincere respect for 
 the integritv, ardor, and earnestness of the writers. 
 
 3 
 
FOREWORD 
 
 Miss Thornbury had an ambition, when but a school girl, 
 to write poetry but never succeeded in writing a single line 
 until years after being stricken when God permitted her to be 
 cast into the prison of utter darkness, like John Bunyan, that 
 He might reveal Himself unto her. This He did and line-by- 
 line the following poems were given to her and immediately 
 she would have a member of the family come into her room 
 and write it down for her. So, this collection. She loves her 
 Church dearly and has stood by it thru its struggles of the 
 past years, and while she has given her tithe and more, yet 
 she feels that her offering to her Lord for His work has been 
 too small, and now offers all the net proceeds from the sales 
 of this little book to Him for His work.— "A Free-Will Offer- 
 mg. 
 
 I, therefore, conclude this introduction in full assurance 
 that a free discussion of the contents of the book will only 
 magnify the truth, and in the cheerful hope that those who 
 write and those who read may alike be "Raised in Glory", 
 there to ever remain with the Lord. 
 
 Thos. B. Ashley. 
 
Life Sketch 
 
 Miss Kizzie Thornbury was born on November 19th, 
 1865, at Pikeville, Pike County, Kentucky. She was dedi- 
 cated to God and given Membership in the Methodist Epis- 
 copal Church by her devoted parents, the Rev. and Mrs. 
 Jas. M. Thornbury, in infancy. She was converted in the 
 year 1885 under the preaching of Brother Geo. Cannon. 
 Dr. E. B. Hill was then the Presiding Elder. She was ever 
 faithful in her attendance at all the services of her Church, 
 although for the last four years of her active life, being 
 church organist, was unable because of her failing strength 
 to operate but one pedal of the instrument at a time. 
 In the year of 1900 Miss Thornbury was rendered a helpless 
 invalid and remains so to this very day. She is afflicted with 
 an acute nervous trouble, which first affected her spinal 
 column, rendering her helpless. However, she found much 
 pleasure in reading and conversing with her friends in her 
 well-lighted room. Thirteen years ago she awoke one morning 
 with a severe pain in her eyes and could not bear the light, and 
 since then she has not looked into a single human face. The 
 day before this sad event Gov. Beckham was in the city and 
 hearing of her illness called to see her, and his was one of the 
 last faces into which she ever looked. She probably has not 
 lost her power to see but cannot endure the remotest ray of 
 light, for, if it happens to fall upon her hands, face, or any 
 portion of her body, her nerves being so acute, she cries out 
 in great agony — so great is the pain that she is forced to keep 
 her eyes tightly bandaged at all times and the room closely 
 darkened and still she cannot bear the light which must come 
 
 5 
 
LIFE SKETCH 
 
 in opening and closing the doors, but has an enclosure made of 
 black oil cloth, entirely surrounding her bed and thru which 
 a single ray of light cannot pass.* 
 
 After nightfall her room is ventilated by having the 
 windows and shades partially raised. Her general health 
 is very good. She is cheerful and jolly all the time — however, 
 deeply religious. Her greatest means of pastime is composing 
 poetry and thinking things thru for the rest of the family, 
 as they invariably come to her with their problems. Truly, 
 she possesses a disciplined mind and a trained judgment. 
 She owns her little home on Second and Division Streets, 
 where she lives with her sister, Mrs. Michael. Too much 
 could not be said of the faithfulness and loyalty to her Church. 
 While suffering the most excruciating pain and continued 
 confinement, she bears it all with unexcelled patience. 
 
 T. B. A. 
 
 * . . . . Within the last few years the overhead enclosure has been removed "through 
 prayer" and a simple paste-board enclosure about the foot and sides of her Uttle bed is all 
 that is required now to shield her body from the direct ray of light. 
 
Testimonies 
 
 By my special request Mrs. Betty Michael, sister of 
 Miss Thornbury, who is practically an invalid but who by the 
 faithful help of her daughter, Mary Elizabeth, cares for their 
 invalid sister and aunt. Her brothers and sisters visit the 
 home daily, and administer to her needs. 
 
 On Thanksgiving Day of 1910, an infant Babe was taken 
 out of the home to be with Jesus, the following New Year's 
 Day God called her dear Husband home. Debts amounting 
 to $70.00 were left to be paid; all of which was paid. Two 
 children left to support and educate. Way seemed dark. 
 Friends advised her to give the children to relatives. With 
 all this upon her, she recalled the instructions of her dear 
 Companion, when he saw that he must go, which were: 
 "Wife, it pays to live right. Live on your knees and God 
 
 will see you through" "So, these Testimonies." 
 
 T. B. A. 
 
 Testimony for 1911 
 
 For the praise and glory of my heavenly Father I'm 
 sending forth this testimony: 
 
 "My heart is dissolved in gratitude and thankfulness to 
 Him who has verified His promise to me this year. Scripture 
 cannot be broken. Passing thru many temptations at the 
 beginning of the year, I prayed much and read God's promises 
 over and over. Finally, I said. These promises are for me,' 
 and with a faith that takes no denial, I stepped out upon 
 them, took a firm hold on God and have never yet let go. 
 Glory to His precious name forever and ever! As His bless- 
 ings came to me day by day, I wrote them down, giving the 
 name of the ones who gave, what it was, and the value; and 
 now, at the end of the year, I count them and am surprised. 
 What my own folk have given me in money, food, and cloth- 
 ing, amounted to $76.51. What others (mostly God's people, 
 
8 TESTIMONIES 
 
 members of the Church in various parts of the country) have 
 given in money, food, and clothing, amounts to $114.67. 
 A total of $190.98. All the money that has passed through 
 my hands, including what has been given me and what I 
 have earned myself, amounts to $220.00, of which $22.00 
 was the Lord's and has been given to His Cause. 
 
 Shall I write down the blessings this coming year? If 
 God can supply my needs one year, He can another; so, 
 here I go by faith in Him who said, 'I'll never leave thee nor 
 forsake thee'. 
 
 "In telling of the temporal blessings, I would not forget 
 the spiritual. Spiritually, this has been the best year of my 
 life. Jesus has been so near. . . . Bless His name. By 
 the grace of God I am determined to make Heaven my home, 
 where good-byes are never said and parting will be no more. 
 Husband and Baby often look this way I am sure, and beckons 
 me to come and some sweet day I'm going. Glory to His 
 Holy name!" 
 
 Testimony for 1912 
 
 "Two years ago my dear husband took his departure for 
 Heaven, leaving me and two little children in the hands of 
 our loving heavenly Father. I soon found that he had left 
 us in the very best hands possible. Our God is a great God. 
 He can work and none can hinder. He is able to do ex- 
 ceedingly abundant above that which we can ask or think. 
 Bless His holy name! 
 
 "After husband had gone and company had left, Satan 
 said to me that I would not be able to keep house very long 
 and that I might as well break-up now. He said further that 
 people would soon get tired of helping and would neglect me. 
 Just then I remembered that my husband advised me before 
 going away to live much on my knees, saying that God hears 
 and answers prayer. So, I began telling Jesus all about it. 
 While thus engaged, I saw a great platform floating in 
 the air and held there by the power of the Unseen hand. As 
 soon as I saw it, I knew that it represented the promises of 
 God, revealed in His Holy Word. As I looked I saw that 
 every piece of timber represented some certain promise. 
 
TESTIMONIES 
 
 I noticed too, that it was roughly made. The corners were 
 not rounded off. This, I knew, was the plain unvarnished 
 Truth. It came and stopped in front of me and Jesus urged 
 me to step out upon it; but for lack of faith I hesitated and 
 then it floated off a little way from me (I continued in prayer 
 yet I do not remember my words). Time after time this same 
 platform came and stopped in front of me as at first; each 
 time Jesus pleading with me to trust Him. Finally I took a 
 firmer hold upon God and stepped out upon His promises and 
 floated away with Jesus. Oh, Glory to His name, the vic- 
 tory was won! Dear friends, to this good day, I am still 
 floating away in the air on the promises of God. Not a single 
 one has broken to let me fall but are just as firm and strong 
 as the day I stepped out upon them. . . . Praise the 
 Lord! 
 
 "After writing my testimony for 1911, I have been re- 
 joicing and praising the dear Lord for supplying our needs 
 thru the year. Satan came to me again and said, 'You need 
 not write down the blessings this year or keep any account of 
 them, for they will not be as much as they were in 1911.' 
 I told him that perhaps I would not need as much. But I find 
 that he lied to me again, for as you will remember our Lord's 
 tenth or tithe for 1911 was $22.00, for 1912 it is $24.80. 
 As you see, the Lord not only gave us as much but $20.00 
 more. Please note again how the Lord has remembered us. 
 $103.05 from our own People and Friends in money, food, and 
 clothing. Then I earned for myself $160.40. Making a 
 total for 1912 of $263.45. We do not tell any one our needs, 
 neither do we ask any one for what they owe us for work ; but 
 we just tell Jesus all about it and He has always sent them 
 to us. Friends, it is for His praise and glory that I write this 
 testimony. 
 
 "Spiritually, I feel that I have climbed at least one round 
 higher. I am stronger in the Faith. My health is some 
 better, and I am having a good time in the Lord. Our little 
 home is one among the humblest, but one of the happiest 
 surely, in Pikeville. In fact, I do not believe that there is one 
 in all the world that is happier. 
 
 "I have sent word up to Heaven by dear Ones who have 
 made the journey thru this year, to father, husband, and our 
 
10 TESTIMONIES 
 
 darling baby, that I am on the way. I believe they de- 
 livered the message as soon as they arrived. 
 
 "Pray for me, friends, that I may climb another round 
 higher on the ladder in 1913. 
 
 Testimony for 1913 
 
 "The third year of my widowhood has passed and gone, 
 and I come again with my yearly written testimony, with 
 which to praise our blessed heavenly Father. 
 
 "This has, indeed, been a busy year for me but neverthe- 
 less a very happy one. We have had sickness, sorrow, wounds, 
 trials, temptations, and burdens, but God's grace has been 
 sufficient and I am to-day on the victory side of life. Glory 
 to His precious name! AH of these things have been used as 
 stepping stones to a higher and a better life, and I feel that I 
 am stronger in the Lord than ever before. The Comforter, 
 which I received nearly eight years ago, still abides. Hal- 
 lelujah! 
 
 "In my testimony last year I quoted the Scripture that 
 'He was able to do exceedingly abundant above that which we 
 could ask or think." And that is just what He has done for us 
 this year. As the children grow older, our expenses are more. 
 And the way the Lord has opened up the way for us is wonder- 
 ful. The income from my rent last year was $27.00. But my 
 rent now brings me $13.00 per month. My business has so in- 
 creased that I cannot possibly do all the work myself and am 
 now furnishing work to my niece. Work comes to me from 
 Hellier, Jenkins, Prestonsburg, East Point, Paintsville, 
 Ashland, Kenova, Williamson, and many different points in 
 the country. Dr. Whitehead, Principal of the Pikeville 
 Collegiate Institute, has given my little daughter a scholar- 
 ship for the remainder of this school year, which means $3.00 
 per month to me. Friends and family often help me with 
 money, food, and clothing. 
 
 "Oh, it pays to stand upon those thirty- two thousand 
 promises contained in the Holy Word of God. I still seem to 
 be floating in the air and resting upon them. I am trying 
 and trusting them and I know God's promises are true. 
 They will never fail me so long as I continue to trust them. 
 
TESTIMONIES 11 
 
 "As for the two previous years, I kept an account of every 
 thing which passed through my hands till two or three months 
 ago when my account book got misplaced and which, so far, 
 I have not been able to find. But as I now remember, the 
 Lord's tenth will be at least $30.00, which has been given to 
 the different causes of the Church. Please remember this, that 
 the Lord's tithe for 1911 was $22.00, for 1912, $24.00, and for 
 this year at least $30.00. Well, Glory! I just feel encouraged 
 to go on. 
 
 "During the year we visited friends in West Virginia; 
 while there God led me to meet Mrs. H. Prichard. By invita- 
 tion, we spent the day in her home. She has been a very dear 
 friend to us since that day, and has shown a deep interest in 
 our little family. When we left her home she insisted, should 
 we need help in any way, that we let her know. However, 
 since that very day she has not waited for us to call upon her 
 but has written us very often a good encouraging letter, and 
 would enclose a $5.00 or $10.00 bill to help us along. I tell 
 you this, only to show how God is leading and caring for us. 
 As we returned from West Virginia, a Camp Meeting was 
 going on at Ashland, Kentucky, and the way opened for us 
 to attend for two days. Brother and Sister Iric lifted and 
 stirred our souls as they told the old gospel story. Those 
 days will never be forgotten. This, with the revival which 
 was conducted by Brother Burnside near where we visited 
 in West Virginia, and which we had the pleasure of attending, 
 made our visit really worth while, besides the very great 
 pleasure of visiting in the home of our dear Brother Smith. 
 
 "Christian friends, I am anxiously awaiting and looking 
 forward to that great meeting in the air when I shall rise 
 to greet my Saviour and from henceforth to be with Him 
 and my dear ones in that beautiful City not made with hands, 
 eternal, in the heavens. 'Even so, come Lord Jesus. Amen.' 
 
 "Yours in His Blessed Service, 
 
 Mrs. Betty Michael." 
 
Scattering Flowers 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 15 
 
 WHEN THE BATTLE IS OVER 
 
 (Tune: " Marching Through Georgia") 
 
 We are fighting here below, for victory above, 
 Jesus is our Captain, our banner is His love. 
 We're not thinking of defeat, we're sure to win the day, 
 If we're faithful to Jesus. 
 
 Chorus: 
 
 Glory! Glory! will be on every tongue, 
 Glory! Glory! the shouting just begun; 
 We will sing His praise thru all eternity, 
 When the battle is over. 
 
 Christian soldiers, fight ye on, nor think the battle long, 
 When it all is over, we'll sing the victor's song; 
 Sing it loud and louder still, tho ages onward roll, 
 When the battle is over. 
 
 Chorus. 
 
 When the battle's over, there will be a jubilee. 
 When we get to heaven, oh, how happy we will be: 
 We'll receive a robe and crown and mansion bright and fair, 
 When the battle is over. 
 
 Chorus. 
 
 When we enter heavens gate and stand before the King, 
 To receive our just reward for all that we have been: 
 We will hear Him say to us, 'Thou tried and faithful one, 
 Joys of heaven await thee." 
 
 Chorus. 
 
16 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 WHEN I SEE JESUS 
 
 (Tune: " No, Never Alone") 
 
 The thread of life is wearing fast, 
 
 My race is almost run ; 
 But when I leave this earthly ball 
 
 Real life will be begun. 
 I'll bid farewell to sorrow, 
 
 rU bid farewell to pain. 
 And when I reach the City, 
 
 With Jesus there I'll reign. 
 
 Chorus : 
 
 ril sing hal-le-lu-jah ! 
 
 When I reach that place. 
 I'll sing aloud hal-le-lu-jah! 
 
 When I see Jesus' face. 
 
 Almost the Boatman I can see, 
 
 Start from the other shore; 
 Almost the sounding I can hear, 
 
 The dipping of His oar. 
 I do not fear the crossing, 
 
 The waves will not o'erflow, 
 For Jesus is the captain. 
 
 He'll guide me safely I know. 
 
 Chorus. 
 
 When darkness around me falls. 
 
 Earth's pleasures all seem riv'n, 
 Yet sweet assurance I can feel 
 
 That blessings will be giv'n. 
 Tho pain may rack this body, 
 
 (It seems to have control) 
 Still Jesus whispers softly, 
 
 I will take care of the soul. 
 
 Chorus. 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 17 
 
 The lovely City I can see, 
 
 The place prepared for me. 
 I'll walk the golden streets above, 
 
 Beside the crystal sea. 
 But Oh, what joy and gladness 
 
 When I shall reach that place, 
 There'll be when I meet Jesus, 
 
 And see Him face-to-face! 
 
 Chorus. 
 
18 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 GOING FOR JESUS 
 
 (Tune: "The Ship that never returned") 
 
 A Christian lad said to his mother, 
 
 "I'll go across the sea, 
 For Jesus says, across the waters 
 
 There's work awaiting me." 
 The mother said, "my child," so sweetly, 
 
 "If Jesus bids thee go 
 To tell the glad news to the heathen. 
 
 He will His grace bestow." 
 
 In crossing o'er the deep blue waters, 
 
 The ship did swiftly glide; 
 He had no fear of storm or shipwreck. 
 
 With Jesus by his side. 
 At night he said, "I thank Thee, father. 
 
 For calling me to go 
 To bear the precious gospel message 
 
 To those who do not know." 
 
 A letter came across the ocean, 
 
 "Dear mother," so it read, 
 "I've reached at last my destination, 
 
 For God my steps hath led. 
 I was received so kindly, mother. 
 
 They asked, 'Why came so late 
 This message from the blessed Saviour, 
 
 Telling of love so great?' 
 
 "I'm sowing seed for Christ my Savior, 
 
 I'm telling of His love, 
 And how He died on Calv'ry's mountam 
 
 That we might live above. 
 Oh, the peace and the joy of knowing, 
 
 I'll gather grain on high; 
 I'll see again these smiling faces, 
 
 For reaping's bye-and-bye!" 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 19 
 
 I'M SO GLAD 
 
 Song 
 (Tune: " Hold The Fort") 
 
 I'm so glad I trust the Savior 
 
 He's my all-in-all ; 
 When I ask of Him believing, 
 
 He will hear me call. 
 
 Chorus: 
 
 I'm so glad I learned to trust Him, 
 
 He who lives above; 
 I'm so glad I can rejoice 
 
 In the Saviour's love. 
 
 When the day is bright with sunshine. 
 
 And the way is clear ; 
 I will not forget to praise Him 
 
 For His blessings here. 
 
 Chorus. 
 
 When the way is dark and stormy. 
 
 Then I trust Him most, 
 And he sends a ray of sunlight 
 
 From the other coast. 
 
 Chorus. 
 
 Come what may I'll ever trust Him 
 
 Till this life is o'er; ^ 
 
 Then I'll praise Him, gladly praise Him, 
 
 On the other shore. 
 
 Chorus. 
 
20 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 MY TRUEST FRIEND 
 
 (Tune: " Je9U8, Lover of My Soul") 
 
 Jesus is my truest friend ; 
 He'll be true unto the end. 
 Other friends do often fail, 
 But His love o'er all prevails. 
 When the waves are dashing high, 
 And destruction seemeth nigh, 
 Then by faith I say, "I know 
 My true Friend will not let go." 
 
 When in need, to Him I go, 
 To the Friend who loves me so. 
 Humbly kneel to Him in prayer: 
 Often I a blessing share. 
 When in trouble, He's my stay, 
 He bids sorrow flee away. 
 Come what may, Jesus, my Friend, 
 Will be true unto the end. 
 
 When I cross the chilly tide. 
 And the waves flow high and wide, 
 I will trust my Friend to save. 
 For His life for me He gave. 
 He will guide me safely o'er 
 To the bright eternal shore; 
 Then with Jesus I will be, 
 Happy through eternity. 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 21 
 
 MY LITTLE SISTER AND I 
 
 (Written for Maater James Martin Thornbury in memory of hii littl* lister.) 
 
 Mary Josephine was sweet, 
 
 She was my Httle sister, 
 And since she has gone away, 
 
 Often I have missed her. 
 
 Her hands were full of dimples, 
 Her eyes were very bright, 
 
 Her cheeks were pink like roses 
 That bloomed in morning light. 
 
 I dearly loved my sister, 
 
 She was so very sweet. 
 I would kiss her on the hand, 
 
 Then kiss her little feet. 
 
 I'd ride her in my wagon. 
 
 We both were full of glee. 
 If she was cross with others, 
 
 She had a smile for me. 
 
 I'd run, and jump, and hollow. 
 
 And lots of things I'd do; 
 I thought it was so funny 
 
 To see her do them too. 
 
 We played "peep hide" together. 
 It made the dark days bright. 
 
 To entertain and please her, 
 Was then my chief delight. 
 
 I would lead her by the hand ; 
 
 She was my little pet. 
 Her sweet smile and cheerful voice 
 
 I never can forget. 
 
 She filled the home with sunshine, 
 
 Grew sweeter every day. 
 Just nineteen months we kept her, 
 
 And then she flew away. 
 
22 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 CHRISTIAN, LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE BRIGHTER 
 
 (Tune: " Life is Like a Mountain Railroad") 
 
 Christian, let your light shine brighter. 
 
 Fill your lamp with oil of love. 
 Help to light up every nation, 
 
 Tis the message from above. 
 Christian, let your light shine brighter, 
 
 Now the fight has just begun; 
 Gird the armor, faithful soldier, 
 
 And the victory is won. 
 
 Chorus : 
 
 Christian, let your light shine brighter, 
 
 Let it shine both far and wide; 
 Some are straying 'way from Jesus, 
 
 You may lead back to His side. 
 
 If you see a weaker vessel. 
 
 Struggling, sinking, 'neath the waves, 
 Row out in the lifeboat. Christian, 
 
 With the message, "Jesus saves". 
 Do not scatter thorns but roses 
 
 In the path the weak ones go, 
 Lend a loving hand to aid them, 
 
 And your light will brighter grow. 
 
 Chorus. 
 
 Christian, be a glow for Jesus: 
 
 Someone on the mountain cold, 
 If your light is shining brighter, 
 
 You may lead back to the fold. 
 Roll the blaze up higher. Christian, 
 
 Roll it to the lofty height. 
 Send a gleam out in the darkness, 
 
 Someone's waiting there for light. 
 
 Chorus. 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 23 
 
 Live up to the standard, Christian, 
 
 And your light will never fail ; 
 You can cross the stormy tempest, 
 
 You can brave life's fiercest gale. 
 Then when ends this earthly mission, 
 
 And the armor is laid down. 
 You'll exchange it for a white robe. 
 
 And a bright and shining crown. 
 
 Chorus. 
 
24 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 A SAD MISTAKE 
 
 When by a false impression 
 A cruel word was spoken, 
 
 Like a dart it pierced a heart, 
 And left it crushed and broken. 
 
 Homeward bound she trod alone 
 The way both dark and dreary, 
 
 Looking neither right nor left: 
 Her heart was sad and weary. 
 
 No one knew that bitter tears 
 Were shed that lonely night; 
 
 But one heard the cruel words, 
 "You are wrong and I am right.' 
 
 Why it happened we'll not say, 
 But cruel words were spoken, 
 
 Severing each tender tie. 
 
 Each kindly thought and token. 
 
 He who spoke so cruelly 
 
 Spent sleepless hours that night, 
 Thinking of his sad mistake: 
 
 He was wrong and she was right. 
 
 Days passed by. They met again, 
 Their friendship still was riven. 
 
 "I was wrong," he bravely said, 
 "And ask to be forgiven." 
 
 "I forgive thus far," she said, 
 
 Her face was all aflame ; 
 "I will speak whene'er we meet. 
 
 But can never be the same." 
 
 He, in a moment's anger. 
 
 Spake words, piercing as a dart. 
 She had time for reflection. 
 
 He now has the broken heart. 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 25 
 
 Many words and deeds of love 
 
 He's showering at her feet, 
 Oft repeating, "Please forgive, 
 
 Can we not hereafter meet? 
 
 "I acknowledge my mistake. 
 
 And am willing to atone; 
 I would call back what I said, 
 
 But it has forever flown." 
 
 *'I acknowledge you've been kind; 
 
 Sweet the morn when first we met. 
 While my heart must plead for you, 
 
 Still those words I can't forget." 
 
 "Can't you in some way erase 
 From memory the words I rue? 
 
 If you can't, then let us part; 
 I've done all that I can do." 
 
 If he made a sad mistake. 
 
 He since has proved a gallant knight; 
 If her pardon she withholds. 
 
 Who is wrong and who is right? 
 
26 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 TEACHING BABY DANNY 
 
 In a home among the hills, 
 
 Lived a happy family; 
 Children played around the door, 
 
 The baby one was Danny. 
 
 He filled the home with sunshine, 
 
 Grew brighter every day ; 
 Though he was so young and small, 
 
 Everything went Danny's way. 
 
 Mother took him in her arms. 
 His cheeks blushing like a rose, 
 
 "How I love my darling babe 
 No one but a mother knows." 
 
 Then she'd rock her babe to sleep. 
 Press him closer to her breast. 
 
 If she did not speak she thought, 
 "Danny's sweeter than the rest." 
 
 Then she'd stroke him on the cheek, 
 
 Kiss the chubby little hands. 
 Often she would breath a prayer, 
 
 "May he bow as God commands." 
 
 "I'll teach him to speak God's name 
 
 Just as soon as he can talk; 
 I will teach him paths of right. 
 
 Soon as little feet can walk. 
 
 "Danny, say, 'I love Jesus'!" 
 
 "I uv Desus," he would say. 
 A quick thought passed through her mind, 
 
 "Next I'll teach my babe to pray." 
 
 "Now I way me down to seep, 
 
 Pay de Ord my soul to teep, 
 If me die before me 'ake. 
 
 Pay de Ord my soul to tate." 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 27 
 
 He was kneeling by her chair; 
 
 His soft hand in hers she'd take. 
 "Dod, bless Danny, mate him dood, 
 
 Iss me ask for Desus sate." 
 
 "Amen" was said getting up, 
 
 Just as other babies do. 
 Looking at his mother, said, 
 
 "I uv Desus and ou too." 
 
 Then she took him in her arms, 
 
 Put him gently in the bed. 
 Shaking him till fast asleep, 
 
 Then these words she softly said : 
 
 "Dearest Jesus, bless my child. 
 May he be a light for Thee, 
 
 Guide the tender little feet 
 O'er life's uneven sea." 
 
 Answered was the mother's prayer 
 When she heard her boy tell 
 
 How the Lord had blessed his soul. 
 And God's spirit on him fell. 
 
 Mother now has gone to rest. 
 
 But the seed still grows she's sown. 
 
 And when reapers gather sheaves. 
 May they meet around God's throne. 
 
28 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 YE MUST BE BORN AGAIN 
 
 (Dedicated to Miss Mollie Sweet.) 
 
 Thirty-four years old to-day, 
 
 All of them spent in sin; 
 It is time to come to Christ, 
 
 And a new life begin. 
 Thirty-four years all in sin, 
 
 Spend not another one; 
 Christ died on the cross for you. 
 
 He was God's only son. 
 Think of many dangers past, 
 
 That God did see you through ; 
 Can you treat a friend like this, 
 
 When He's so true to you ? 
 
 This is a bright day for you: 
 Thirty-four years on earth; 
 
 But if you will rightly think. 
 There is another birth. 
 
 It is being born of God, 
 Having the soul set free; 
 
 Washed in the blood of Jesus, 
 That flowed on Calvary. 
 
 Now that you are all alone 
 
 Just speak to God, He'll hear; 
 Ask for pardon, peace, and grace; 
 
 He is thy friend, don't fear. 
 Come with thy heavy burdens, 
 
 Lay them at Jesus' feet; 
 He will accept thy off'ring, 
 
 And a new heart create. 
 Speak to the Lord, He's waiting, 
 
 The meek and lowly Lamb, 
 "Kind Father, I come to Thee, 
 
 Oh, take me as I am!" 
 He will forgive you freely. 
 
 Do not in sin remain ; 
 For though this your birthday, 
 
 You must be born again. 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 29 
 
 HIS PLACE IS NOW ON HIGH 
 
 (In memory of Ninian Bobier. Written for his mother ) 
 
 Another has gone to rest, 
 
 Again the home is sad, 
 But if the veil were lifted. 
 
 Your heart would then be glad. 
 
 Another place is vacant. 
 
 And you will daily see 
 The old familiar places, 
 
 Where oft he used to be. 
 
 Although his place is vacant. 
 
 He fills a place on high ; 
 God has prepared it for him. 
 
 You'll meet him bye-and-bye. 
 
 This place is in a mansion, 
 A house not made with hands. 
 
 Eternal in the heavens, 
 And it forever stands. 
 
 Here in this lovely mansion 
 
 Now lit in golden hue, 
 God has there other places. 
 
 Has one prepared for you. 
 
 There you'll meet your son again, 
 And never from him part; 
 
 You'll never know a sorrow. 
 Nor have an aching heart. 
 
 Yet it's hard to part from those 
 Now veiled from mortal sight ; 
 
 But sad one, do not murmur. 
 The Lord does all things right. 
 
30 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 THE LOST STONE AND THE NEW CHURCH 
 
 (February 22, 1912) 
 
 It was thirty-four years ago, 
 
 We built the first new church 
 In the little town of Pikeville; 
 
 The Scriptures there were searched. 
 
 With loving hands the Stone was laid, 
 
 The hearts within did thrill; 
 They put their trust in Jesus Christ, 
 
 And He their souls did fill. 
 
 The people met from time to time, 
 
 To worship God alone; 
 And some who did the Word proclaim 
 
 Are now around the throne. 
 
 There have been some hallelujah times 
 
 Within the sacred wall ; 
 God's children shouted loudest praise, 
 
 His power there did fall. 
 
 As years passed by the church grew small, 
 
 Delapidated, too, 
 We grew tired of repairing it, 
 
 And said, "we'll build anew". 
 
 So purchasing a sacred spot 
 
 Not very far away ; 
 There's where we will build the new church, 
 
 We lay the stone to-day. 
 
 Good-bye, Old Church, we love thee still, 
 
 We say in tones so sad ; 
 But when we think of blessings there, 
 
 Our hearts are then made glad. 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 31 
 
 We wished to find the Old Church Stone, 
 
 The question then arose, 
 "Who now can tell us where it is?" 
 
 The answer: "No one knows." 
 
 Then someone asked the older ones. 
 Whose hair was streaked with gray, 
 
 "Can you tell of the corner stone?" 
 The answer came back, "Nay". 
 
 Perhaps this stone in after years 
 
 Will too, be rolled away; 
 Will anyone be left to tell 
 
 Who laid the stone to-day? 
 
 "Lord give us faith that will not shrink, 
 
 May we new courage take, 
 And help us build the new church" 
 
 We ask for Jesus* sake. 
 
S2 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 WHY I AM BEHIND 
 
 .1-' \-lJ ^^^ ^°™^ money for my Pastor but he had not called to see me for some time, 
 this httle poem is written as a simple reminder. Written in the year 1912. 
 
 Brother, I have some money 
 
 For our little Preacher, 
 When you see him will you please 
 
 Tell the noble creature. 
 
 Statements say I am behind 
 
 With the amount assessed, 
 Really I want to give 
 
 And keep up with the rest. 
 
 But I'm deprived of going 
 
 To church in day or night, 
 This is why I am behind 
 
 With such a little mite. 
 
 If you should see our Preacher 
 
 Would you explain it all? 
 I've no opportunity 
 
 Unless the pastor calls. 
 
 Unless I give the Stewards 
 
 This I'd rather not do, 
 For then I'd miss the sermon 
 
 And conversation, too. 
 
 But if he should fail to come 
 
 For my assessment small. 
 I'll keep it for the next one 
 
 This Pastor's left, that's all. 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 33 
 
 RESIGNATION 
 
 (In memory of Mrs. Julia Amick Honaker and dedicated to her daughter, Lavonne.j 
 
 The happy home was just complete, 
 
 The future looking bright; 
 But lo, great sorrow entered in, 
 
 And changed the day to night. 
 
 The mother dear was very ill, 
 
 The end was drawing near; 
 She knew that soon she'd have to part, 
 
 From all her kind friends here. 
 
 She said, when told she'd have to go, 
 
 "Death hath no sting for me. 
 For I'm prepared to live with God 
 
 Thru all Eternity. 
 
 "But of our little girl take care, 
 
 I leave her here with you; 
 Look up to God, He'll give you grace, 
 
 Be faithful and be true." 
 
 Her Christian friends all asked of God, 
 
 That He her life would spare. 
 But He replied so tenderly, 
 
 "Her work is finished there." 
 
 The one who did adorn that home, 
 
 Will be seen there no more; 
 But she is waiting for her friends 
 
 Upon the other shore. 
 
 She was a Christian most sincere, 
 
 A kind and loving wife; 
 She was the best of mother's, 
 
 Christ's light shone in her life. 
 
 Look up, sad heart, see God is good. 
 
 The parting won't be long; 
 For soon you'll meet this one above, 
 
 And sing the victor's song. 
 
 The church will miss this friend so true, 
 
 She worked with steady will. 
 Who'll volunteer to serve the Lord, 
 
 Her place in church to fill. 
 
34 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 BABY 
 
 Kizzy May is very sweet, 
 
 (She came on Tuesday morn) 
 
 She makes glad the hearts of all, 
 And does our home adorn. 
 
 Blue's the color of her eyes, 
 We think they will be brown, 
 
 Her cheeks are soft like velvet ; 
 She's the sweetest babe around. 
 
 Her mouth, nose, chin are perfect; 
 
 Pink, her fingers and toes. 
 She's the prettiest babe in town. 
 
 Most everybody knows. 
 
 Her mamma was disappointed 
 When she was not a boy. 
 
 But she loves her just the same. 
 She's now her pride and joy. 
 
 She can't do without her now 
 For she's so sweet and good. 
 
 Would not swap her for a boy 
 Not even, if she could. 
 
 They welcome their friends to come 
 And they with her agree; 
 
 She has the prettiest babe. 
 That ever they did see. 
 
 Her papa is so well pleased. 
 
 He's happy all the day. 
 If you want to see him smile, 
 
 Just speak of Kizzy May. 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 35 
 
 THE FOUNTAIN 
 
 About twenty years after the death of my father, I dreamed that I was in a crowded 
 church. Silence continued to reign in this assembly until finally father came forward and 
 said, " It's they that are at the fountain who have a subject", I thot he meant "It's they 
 that have religion who have something to tell." This dream inspired the writing of this 
 poem. 
 
 We often hear some people say, 
 
 'T cannot speak, I cannot pray; 
 
 I'm willing anything to do, 
 
 But please excuse me from these two". 
 
 The fountain now you need, dear one, 
 It flows so freely from the throne. 
 If your heart is filled from above, 
 Then you'll want to tell of God's love. 
 
 Plunge into this fountain to-day. 
 Then you can speak, then you can pray. 
 The fountain's deep, its never dry; 
 God planned it so: we need not die. 
 
 Why stand ye idle, my brother? 
 This lukewarm condition won't do. 
 Step into the deep this moment, 
 And God will give power to you. 
 
 Then you can speak of joy divine, 
 Ever ready to fall in line; 
 Letting your light shine day by day, 
 Willing to speak, willing to pray. 
 
36 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 KITTIE FLO 
 
 (In memory of little Catherine Florence Hatcher.) 
 
 Kittie Flo was oh, so sweet, 
 Her eyes were very bright, 
 
 Her cheeks were pink Hke roses 
 That bloom in morning light. 
 
 She filled the home with sunshine, 
 Grew sweeter every day ; 
 
 Just eighteen months you kept her, 
 And then she flew away. 
 
 You'll miss the little darling; 
 
 Each morning, noon and night 
 You'll think of how you did clasp 
 
 Her in your arms so tight. 
 
 The little bed is empty. 
 
 Vacant, the little chair; 
 But while you miss your darling 
 
 She's safe in Jesus' care. 
 
 But if you'll look a moment, 
 Your fair one you will see, 
 
 Waving her sweet little hand 
 And saying, "Come to me." 
 
 The little hand keeps waving, 
 A voice so low and sweet 
 
 Says, "Come o'er this way, Daddy, 
 And Kitty Flo you'll meet. 
 
 'Tm just across the river, 
 My home is bright and fair. 
 
 You'll find me waiting for you. 
 On heaven's golden stair." 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 37 
 
 THE BOYS' REBUTTAL 
 
 We've heard the men in our small town 
 
 Say we boys are so bad, 
 They say that boys have changed so much, 
 
 Since they were just "a. lad." 
 We'd like to tell you a few things, 
 
 That we see some men do, 
 And then you'll say we've told the truth, 
 
 When at last we are thru. 
 
 While men are loafing on the street, 
 
 We go to Sabbath school, 
 A very few will go to church. 
 
 They break the Golden Rule. 
 And then we've heard men on the street 
 
 Take God's dear name in vain; 
 And that's how we boys learned to swear, 
 
 And now are we to blame? 
 Some men sell whisky on the street, 
 
 The buying's left to you. 
 The officers do not object. 
 
 For they will drink it too. 
 
 We boys can scarcely pass a man 
 
 Upon the street to-day, 
 But we smell whisky on his breath. 
 
 And he walks just this way. 
 
 Then some men use tobacco and 
 
 They gamble and they fight, 
 And if we boys just have a scrap, 
 
 They say "Hain't that a sight!" 
 
 We think the men should be ashamed 
 
 To talk about us so. 
 When we just do the things they do; 
 
 They taught us all we know. 
 
 But if the men would make a start, 
 
 And try to do what's right. 
 Each little boy would fall in line 
 
 And help with all his might. 
 
3S SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 MAMMA, I'M PEEPING FOR YOU 
 
 (In memory of little Wellman Jay Michael.) 
 
 I'm standing by the window, 
 In a home so bright and fair, 
 
 And I am so happy here 
 For all its joy I share. 
 
 I'm peeping thru the curtain 
 
 Papa is with me too ; 
 We're looking for another 
 
 And mamma, it is you. 
 
 If you could see me peeping 
 Thru heaven's curtain bright, 
 
 Your heart would beat with rapture 
 To see me robed in white. 
 
 Do you remember, mamma, 
 You thot my hand so sweet, 
 
 And often you would kiss them 
 Then kiss my little feet. 
 
 My little hands are holding 
 The curtain while we peep. 
 
 The little feet are standing 
 On heaven's golden street. 
 
 We're peeping, peeping, peeping, 
 We're peeping every day; 
 
 And we will keep on peeping 
 Until you come this way. 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 39 
 
 THE PASTOR'S BABY 
 
 The Pastor's baby is so sweet, 
 He's scarcely one year old^ 
 
 But he can do just heaps of things 
 His mother has us told. 
 
 His name is Raymond Francis Felts, 
 
 This little one so sweet. 
 He has the softest , rosy cheeks, 
 
 And dimpled hands and feet. 
 
 He has his funny little ways,; 
 
 As other babies do. 
 So busy always are his hands ; 
 
 His laughing eyes are blue. 
 
 They keep him now so neat and clean. 
 But he'll get in the cinders, 
 
 When crawling he begins to do, 
 Unless his mother hinders. 
 
 They could not do without the boy, 
 
 This little bud of love, 
 He's such a pretty baby, too. 
 
 And coos just like a dove. 
 
 He has a head for knowledge 
 
 As you can plainly see. 
 We hope that when he is a man 
 
 A Bishop he will be. 
 Sometim.es they cart him into Church 
 
 When he is fast asleep. 
 And then the little ones alike 
 
 All want to take a peep. 
 And when he wakes he looks so sweet 
 
 It is not v/orth our while 
 To tell you that the older ones 
 
 All soon begin to smile. 
 
 And when he grows to be a man 
 (This lovely little creature) 
 
 We hope his Daddy he'll surpass 
 When he becomes a preacher. 
 
40 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 A CHRISTMAS JOY 
 
 On Christmas Eve I did receive 
 
 A basket full of fruit, 
 From Brother Neal and Samuel Sadd 
 
 Who knew just what would suit. 
 
 The palate of a shut-in soul, 
 
 One that's of life bereft. 
 It was a sweet surprise to me 
 
 One I can't soon forget. 
 
 The grapes were juicy, ripe and sweet;, 
 
 Delicious to the taste; 
 I ate them to my heart's content 
 
 And none did go to waste. 
 
 The apples, pears, bananas. 
 
 And oranges were fine; 
 It was a good selection, 
 
 The finest in that line. 
 
 Some candies, figs and nuts were sent, 
 All made my Christmas bright. 
 
 Some little children, too, did share 
 My joys with great delight. 
 
 The donors had expressed a wish 
 To know which I liked best. 
 
 To answer this I then did try 
 Since 'twas a small request. 
 
 I tasted this and tasted that, 
 
 And gave it all a test. 
 But for my life I could not tell 
 
 What kind I liked the best. 
 
 So grateful was I to these friends 
 Who'd been so kind and good. 
 
 Sufficient thanks I could not find. 
 But then they understood. 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 41 
 
 MY BROTHER 
 
 I have a baby brother, 
 
 My home is now complete. 
 He is so very Httle,, 
 
 And he's so very sweet. 
 
 His name is Wilson Eugene, 
 For Dad and friend you know. 
 
 He is my first brothey. 
 
 That's why Fm tickled so. 
 
 He is the cutest baby, 
 
 Just sweet as he can be, 
 And if you don't believe me. 
 
 Just come around and see. 
 
 He has the blackest little head, 
 His cheeks are soft and rosy ; 
 
 When he's sleeping snug and warm. 
 He looks so sweet and cosy. 
 
 He has the sweetest little hands, 
 Fve kissed them o'er and o'er. 
 
 And every time I kiss them 
 I want to kiss them more. 
 
 Fm willing to divide my dolls 
 
 And other little toys. 
 But I guess he'll want a hammer. 
 
 Boys like to make a noise. 
 
 There was one thing that troubled me, 
 He took my place at night, 
 
 But Daddy got me candy 
 And fixed it up alright. 
 
 I would not take the world for hirrt. 
 
 My darling little brother; 
 But here's a secret I will tell, 
 
 I do not want another. 
 
42 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 A FRIEND OF LONG AGO 
 
 Miss Sweet, do you remember 
 A friend you once did know, 
 
 Who then did live on Second Street, 
 Where you did often go? 
 
 Perhaps you have forgotten, 
 Sometimes one will forget ; 
 
 Just thought I would remind you 
 That one is living yet. 
 
 When you can spare a moment 
 Remember friendship ties 
 
 By going in to see her, 
 'Twill be a glad surprise. 
 
 But if you don't want to go. 
 Pretend you think her dead, 
 
 And spend all the time you have 
 With one called Mr. Red. 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 43 
 
 THE PEARLY GATES 
 
 There is a pearly gateway 
 
 That leadeth up to God, 
 And it for many ages 
 
 By Christians has been trod. 
 
 Chorus : 
 
 When the pearly gates unfold, 
 When the pearly gates unfold, 
 
 We'll enter the beautiful city. 
 When the pearly gates unfold. 
 
 The way was made by Jesus. 
 
 "Walk straight," we have been told, 
 And when we reach that city. 
 
 The pearly gates unfold. 
 
 Chorus. 
 
 "The way is straight and narrow. 
 
 Turn not to either side, 
 And when you reach the city. 
 
 The gates will open wide." 
 
 Chorus. 
 
 And when our journey's over. 
 The gates will then unfold ; 
 
 We'll live in wondrous mansions. 
 And walk on streets of gold. 
 
 Chorus. 
 
44 
 
 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 BABY HOLBROOK 
 
 (In memory of little Lake Erie Holbrook.) 
 
 You were happy in your home 
 With your sweet children, three. 
 
 Jesus said, "I will take one. 
 And two I'll leave with thee. 
 
 "I'll take little baby Lake, ^^ 
 She is so sweet and good." 
 
 Of course you tried to keep her, 
 But Jesus knew you would. 
 
 He knew it was hard to part 
 With one so fair and sweet, 
 
 But he saw thorns awaiting 
 To pierce the little feet. 
 
 He said, "I'll take the baby 
 And place her up on high, 
 
 And she will be much sweeter 
 Beyond the starry sky. 
 
 She will be watching for you 
 
 In that home so fair; 
 Be ready then to meet her 
 
 There'll be no parting there." 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 45 
 
 A GIFT 
 
 Note: The ladies of the M. E. Church, of which Mrs. Retta Tibbs is a member, pre- 
 sented her with a copy of the New Testament, following her conversion by the reading of 
 this poem. 
 
 Friends present to you a book, 
 
 Think you will like it, too, 
 And by this time another year, 
 
 Hope you will read it through. 
 
 It is a precious little book, 
 
 'Tis worth its weight in gold; 
 If you will read it carefully, 
 
 God will the truths unfold. 
 
 The favor that we ask of you 
 
 Is, read it every day, 
 And after each time reading it, 
 
 Do not forget to pray. 
 
 It teaches the way to Heaven, 
 
 A place so bright and fair; 
 And when we reach that home above, 
 
 We hope to meet you there. 
 
46 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 THY WILL BE DONE 
 
 (In memory of Walden Grizzle) 
 
 There's mourning in the cottage, 
 
 The parsonage on the hill. 
 He was our dear Pastor's son, 
 
 But now his voice is still. 
 
 He was the oldest one at home, 
 The mother's help and joy; 
 
 Now she will greatly miss him, 
 Will miss her darling boy. 
 
 The parents, being Christians, 
 Went to their God in prayer. 
 
 They said, "Lord, if 'tis Thy will. 
 To us our dear son spare. 
 
 "Into Thy hands, oh, God of love. 
 We now commend our son ; 
 
 Not our will, oh, our Father, 
 Not ours but thine be done." 
 
 God looked down with loving eyes, 
 And said with pitying grace, 
 
 "I have prepared a mansion. 
 Your son just fits the place. 
 
 "Five jewels bright I've asked of you, 
 For this their mansion fair; 
 
 Them I've taken from your home, 
 And placed up here with care. 
 
 "He'll be happy in this home, 
 The house not made with hands, 
 
 Eternal in the heavens, 
 It shall forever stand. 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 47 
 
 "And in this divine abode, 
 
 Lighted in golden hue, 
 There are still other places, 
 
 Which may be filled by you. 
 
 "Here you'll see your boy again, 
 And never from him part. 
 
 You'll never know a sorrow, 
 Nor have an aching heart." 
 
 When the mother saw God's will, 
 
 It put her to the test; 
 She said, "Dear Jesus, take him, 
 
 So he will be at rest." 
 
 "I shall see my boy again. 
 Some sweet day bye-and-bye, 
 
 And there will be no parting 
 In that bright home on high." 
 
48 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 WHEN MOTHER COMBED MY HAIR 
 
 When I was a little child, 
 
 Well, just about so high, 
 I had a loving mother. 
 
 Who now is in the sky. 
 
 There's one thing I remember, 
 
 I see her smiles so fair; 
 Then I hear her kindly say, 
 
 "Come, let me comb your hair." 
 
 She'd comb the tangles gently, 
 
 Till all were out, you see; 
 Then part it in the middle 
 
 As straight as it could be. 
 
 She'd catch two curls up this way, 
 
 And tied them with a bow; 
 The others hanging down my back, 
 
 Made quite a pretty show. 
 
 Then she'd step aside to see 
 
 If it was tied just right, 
 Then come a little nearer 
 
 And pull the bow up tight. 
 
 She would twine my golden curls 
 'Round and 'round her finger, 
 
 Then she'd kiss me on the cheek 
 As near her I'd linger. 
 
 She'd tell me there of heaven 
 
 W^here all is joy and light. 
 Then she'd place my golden curls, 
 
 And pull the bow up tight. 
 
 She told me she was going home 
 
 And leave her little girl. 
 I saw a tear come in her eye. 
 
 Then drop upon a curl. 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 49 
 
 She spoke in tones more tender, 
 "When I leave my little girl, 
 
 She'll have no one to comb her hair. 
 Nor place the golden curl." 
 
 She bent her head down slowly, 
 Pressed her cheek against my own, 
 
 And put her arms around me. 
 While we were there alone. 
 
 She said, "Dear, be true to God, 
 And meet me in that home. 
 
 Where we'll never part again. 
 And death will never come." 
 
 I could not see the meaning then 
 
 But I can see to-night; 
 Now I've no one to comb my hair. 
 
 Nor pull the bow up tight. 
 
 When I comb my hair myself. 
 The bow gets on one side, 
 
 Sometimes it turns wrong side up — 
 Sometimes it comes untied. 
 
 Then I just sit down and cry, 
 
 When I see it isn't right, 
 And then I wish for mother 
 
 To pull the bow up tight. 
 
 When I reach that home above, 
 And meet my mother there, 
 
 I just wonder if she'll say, 
 
 "Come, let me comb your hair." 
 
50 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 WHEN TO SCATTER FLOWERS 
 
 Don't brighten room or casket 
 
 With roses when Fm gone, 
 The time to scatter flowers 
 
 Will be forever flown. 
 
 Life is the time for roses, 
 
 A smile or kindly deed; 
 Life is the time for flowers, 
 
 The time to sow the seed. 
 
 Don't wait to speak a loving word 
 Beside your dead friend's bier; 
 
 Don't wait, for they who're stilled in death 
 Your kind words cannot hear. 
 
 Ah, too often we neglect 
 
 The poor, the sick, the lame. 
 Jesus said to visit them. 
 
 Go in His holy name. 
 
 Do you remember, Christian : 
 
 "Imprisoned, sick," said He. 
 "As you did not to the least, 
 
 You did not unto Me." 
 
 There's many ways to brighten : 
 
 Perhaps with pen and ink 
 You can send a message that 
 
 Will be both food and drink. 
 
 Go speak the w^ords of Jesus, 
 
 Go breathe a word of prayer, 
 Go sing and read His praises : 
 
 You will the blessing share. 
 
SCATTERING FLOWERS 51 
 
 Don't wait until your friends are gone 
 To bring your flowers sweet, 
 
 For from their pale and lifeless lips 
 No loving smile you'll meet. 
 
 But strive to scatter sunshine 
 
 Among the high and low. 
 A cup of water in His name 
 
 Will make the flowers grow. 
 
 Go scatter seeds of kindness 
 In sunshine and in show'rs; 
 
 When you do a loving deed, 
 Then you scatter flowers. 
 
 Don't wait till all is over. 
 Then say, "What can I do?" 
 
 When perhaps that one in life 
 Looked for a smile from you. 
 
 O Christian, look around you! 
 
 Is not there someone near 
 Who is in need of sunshine? 
 
 Go speak a word of cheer. 
 
 Is not there someone near you. 
 Now spending lonely hours? 
 
 Go and speak a loving word. 
 Life is the time for flowers. 
 
52 SCATTERING FLOWERS 
 
 GATHERING FLOWERS 
 
 (In memory of little Kizzie May Thornbury) 
 
 It was a lovely morning, 
 
 One bright, sweet day in May, 
 
 When baby came to see us; 
 We thot she came to stay. 
 
 This precious little flower, 
 We tended with such care, 
 
 Made bright our home with sunshine, 
 And she our joys did share. 
 
 It was another May-time, 
 
 Another lovely day. 
 When Jesus gathering flowers. 
 
 Took our babe away. 
 
 We said, "Dear Jesus, leave her, 
 
 If it's Thy will, we pray, 
 Oh, let us keep our darling. 
 
 Our little flow'r of May." 
 
 But Jesus sweetly whispered, 
 ''She has a home on high. 
 
 And she will be much sweeter. 
 If blooming in the sky." 
 
 And while He gathered flowers. 
 He took our babe that day. 
 
 And now among the sweetest 
 Is our little flow'r of May. 
 
LIBRARY OF 
 
 CONGRESS