First Year

by Mildred V. Barthel

Strange

To be away

From parent sounds

And the feel of childhood.

Fun

To find the college

Dorm has so many

Friendly doors.

Good

To have letters in the mailbox:

They miss me,

They know I’m fine,

They’re sending cookies soon.

Scary

To be making so many

Decisions affecting my future.

Thankful

To have brought

Prayer

As a permanent roommate.

Photo by Paul Proctor