Are You Missed?

Are you missed? Ask the flower if she misses the sun

On a morning dreary and gray.

Her answer is mine O gentle boy –

My oldest lad who is going away.

O fair-haired boy you will always be missed –

Your grave gentle face I cannot forget -

I knew you were going – have known it long –

And I hail your departure with keenest regret.

From under my care you have gone at last

You’ll never again be under my rule.

More competent hands will guide you now

But none more willing – in that far-off school.

Written by Ida May Schaffer

September 3, 1923

Age of 17