I began writing this column as I was flying 35,000 feet in the air, on my way to a symposium and convention in Washington DC. It was my very first trip to the nation's capitol. And I remember long ago reading how to reach Washington DC. I read that one was to go to Harvard first, and then turn left. And here I was flying by air to my destination and hearing those famous words, "Fasten your seat belts!" Yes. The weather was very warm there until on Sunday afternoon when I was to return home, that showers of rain fell upon the city. It was also a great joy to be able to meet with extended family at the Crystal Cafe near the airport, and share with them the exciting days at the Washington Hilton, where the symposium and convention was held.
The 1995 Symposium and Convention of the International Society of Poets was held August 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th at the Washington Hilton in Washington DC. Writers and poets attended from 50countries. Every state of the union, and every province in Canada. Among the keynote speakers was Senator Eugene McCarthy, twice a candidate for president of the United States, and one of today's most fascinating poets. Florence Henderson was the keynote speaker, and also shared her musical talents at the banquet on Friday evening. Johnny Cash, June Carter, The Shirelles were also a highlight as the convention entertainment.
The final awards program was in the international ballroom on Sunday with a presentation for the Young Poets Scholarship, the Poet's Choice Prizes and the grand prize for the winning poem was given. The grand prize was entitled, "Old Man's Treasures." The young poet wrote a poem entitled, "Relatives," and related her thoughts about her relatives who attended the family reunion.
As I write these last few sentences to this column, I am making plans for another trip. Yes. The big, 60th anniversary family reunion with extended, extended family. I will try to write something nice about them. I have attended many reunions in my lifetime. This one may be the mother of all reunions. Stay tuned.
A thought to ponder: "It will be the poets of the world, who will bring us back to God." Walt Whitman.
May you be inspired to write a relative or a friend.
Warm Thoughts From the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner
August 17th, 1995.
Published in the Marion Record
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Till next time,
Trina