Ode to Eto Park
I read the article about Eto Park in The Bay News. This park is very special to me, not only for its past history, but especially for the little church next to it. The article did not mention the church. From time to time I write a poem and I thought I might share my poem about Eto Park with you:
A Park in a Dead End Street A dead end street, unknown to most, the entrance to a park. The gate is open. I walk in. I am alone. There is a greeting near the gate from those that have long gone, Of conversations with loved ones, that stay, and linger on.
I walk upon a black stone pond, so lovingly laid down, And sit upon a stone made bench. I look around. Before me is a simple church and on the wall attached, There is a painted picture. A memory long past. The picture shows a sinner, who turned his life around, was baptized in the garden, surrounded by a crowd.
The painter showed me with his brush, a life was changed that day.
This is the purpose of this church, he wanted to convey. Take time to look up to the sky, let earthly sounds grow dim. Your soul is more important. It gives you peace within.
I need a quiet garden to pause and look around. To feel the pulse of Nature and listen to it ‘s sound. I tend to rush from task to task and never stop to rest, Or to enjoy the simple things that really are the best.
The beauty all around me may not be there to stay.
A life lived to the fullest brings joy to every day. It is the simple pleasures that make a life worthwhile. I look for those each day in life, and great them with a smile.
We are a part of Nature and of the world around, But only for a short time, then we are Heaven bound.
Life rushes by so quickly. But take some time to rest, Or end up at a dead end street of failure and regret.
Investing time in money is not a lasting gain. Take time to care for others or those that are in pain. Share time with those around you, encouraging and true. Those words of love will stay with them, they will remember you.
When life is overwhelming, please do not be afraid. There is a Higher Power that keeps the earth in space. Trust Him. He cares for Nature. He also cares for you. Take time, to thank your Maker before the morning dew.
— Ybi Van Ekern
Pleasantly Overwhelmed
Dear Editor:
We at Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Luis Obispo are pleasantly overwhelmed by the generosity exhibited within our community at our recent Holiday Party. For the fifth year in a row, our agency co-hosted the event with Charles E. Teach Elementary School, with special help from fourth grade teacher Mr. Guy Crabb, a 30-year veteran teacher, who coordinated a team of 125 student and parent volunteers.
Over 150 children and their families enjoyed a warm lunch, compliments of Panda Express, as well as holiday themed activities including sugar cookie decorating, thanks to a gracious donation by the Madonna Inn.
Each youth attendee received a personalized, gift-wrapped present compliments of the adept coordination and generosity of volunteers at Cal Poly’s Center for Services in Action, as well as Morris and Garritano Insurance.
The event was well documented thanks to local photographer, Rob Mullin. Other individuals in the community donated time and resources to make this afternoon an all-around success. Thank you Mike Hill and Jenny Anthony!
Our team is beyond grateful for all of the community partners who assist Big Brothers Big Sisters in their mission to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever!
