A Lesson--Sad Regrets

A Lesson—Sad Regrets On the yellow school bus I was seated by the window alone, Age 8 and on my way home; The route and stops well known. The glass on the window felt cool I felt sick since out of bed So against the cool glass, I rested my head. Again and again thinking, “Don’t get sick here!” I gave it all my will, But, my heart beat grew faster As I became more ill. Suddenly…my body took over. As we neared my house. The stuff inside… Now out on my blouse. An older girl came to me with open purse; She calmly took out tissue by tissue As she gently wiped up the mess So silently and without an issue. This girl looked about thirteen, She seemed so mature And knew what to do, As if she did this before. I never said thank-you Yet, I never felt it more. Perhaps, I was too sick, Too ashamed or shy. I searched for a good reason; But found no good excuse why. Lovely young lady from the bus, How do you fare? I wish you could hear the gratitude I did not share. It was over fifty years ago And there’s still some sad regret Yet it’s a lesson learned That I will never forget.