kids would hop on his back at the spring outing,
ride him like Roy Rogers would harness Trigger.
bucking and snorting his love to the young 'uns
he'd capture grinning hearts and warmed souls.


he'd pass out gum, Spearmint his favorite
he would shower tow-heads with smells of mint.
make a noose with his grin and rough hands,
as he won the hearts of all the church folk.


his headstone, a testament to his name, deeds;
standing in a square the kids all look down
and in awe wonder, where The Gum Man went?
younger ones wondered when he'd be back?

05/21/2008

Posted on 05/21/2008
Copyright © 2026 Charlie Morgan