The Piano Bench

Pianos share a legacy

Far beyond their melodies.

Stories of dreams and aspirations

Rise among black and white keys.

Remember lessons for the children,

Hymns to say what we believed?

Duets: who could forget chopsticks?

Practice is finished—necessary, most relieved.

Pianos carry memories

Of love and hate and hurt,

Of charm, beauty, or comfort

Like a well worn plaid shirt.

Children gathered round about

Or sitting on a knee,

The tunes of time move quickly on

Yet capture you and me.

Where do we find reflections

Of these treasures in our hearts?

Lift the lid on your piano bench;

That will surely be a start.

A collection of keepsakes

We didn’t want to lose,

Sermon notes, songs composed,

Recital programs, sheet music to choose.

It seems so second fiddle

To the glory of hammer and strings,

But the hidden joys of my piano bench

Came to light and made my heart sing.

For life is filled with moments.

We walk in measured feet.

Pause for lyric or word refrain,

Relish those secret treasures that you keep.

(Dance and choreographed reading by Leah Nelson at the Crisis Nursery Benefit Concert)