You Can't Take It With You
The other day I saw the most pathetic thing I think I shall ever see!
It was so macabre and shocking that it piqued my curiosity!
Seems this old miser died having atoned for his many transgressions,
But was adamant about taking with him all his earthly possessions!
He had derided that well-known saw, "you can't take it with you",
And asserted, "Them's my things that took a lifetime to accrue!"
Even on his deathbed as he breathed his last and ceased to function,
He fretted about his stuff as the priest administered extreme unction!
In the funeral procession behind the hearse was a huge U-Haul truck,
Containing his suits and shoes, booze and gold plus all his other ruck!
Oft' I've pondered about that old tightwad and his ultimate fate,
And how St. Peter handled the matter when he greeted him at the Gate!
Robert L. Hinshaw served 30 years in the Air Force retiring in 1978 in the grade of Chief Master Sergeant. He began writing poetry in 2002 at age 72 and has composed over 1100 poems.
Nice poem, Robert. Great way to transform it into a story. Thank you for sharing and thank you for serving in the armed services, protecting our rights and freedoms. My father retired from the Navy after putting in 31 years.
ReplyDelete-MJ
www.tgbtgpublictions.com
Yes, some people do hang on a little too tightly to money and "things" but you're right, you can't take it with you. Enjoy it while you're here, then pass it on for others to enjoy after you leave is what I say. It would be interesting to see what St. Peter told that man about bringing his things in a U-Haul. I wonder how much it would cost to take a U-Haul to Heaven anyway? haha! All joking aside, this is a wonderful poem and a nice reminder that "you can't take it with you."
ReplyDeleteDear Bob -
ReplyDeletethe picture of the hearse towing a u-haul has me in tears - not the bereavement kind. You are a pip.
love,
Kathy
Thank you, Jack Horne, for the following comment--
ReplyDeletethanks for a good chuckle
Funny or ironic? Doesn't matter... amusing both ways... Terry
ReplyDeleteI look at this poetry as being sad - sad that people are this way. I think material items bring joy for the moment - a touch is everlasting...
ReplyDeleteRhoda Galgiani
Robert, I thoroughly enjoyed this poem full of truth and humor. Thank you so much for sharing your talent.
ReplyDeleteCharlene