LITTLE WORLD
When I quit this mortal shore,
And mosey ’round the earth no more,
Don’t weep, don’t sigh, don’t sob;
I may have found a better job.
Don’t go and buy a large bouquet,
For which you’ll find it hard to pay;
Don’t mope around and feel all blue,
I may be better off than you.
Or anything you know I ain’t.
If you have jam like that to spread,
Please hand it out before I’m dead.
Just pin one in my button-hole,
While I’m alive and well today;
Don’t wait until I’ve gone away.
~Author Unknown
I found this poem on faded newsprint when going through my father’s things after he passed away 10 years ago today. As many of you know, my photography has its roots in his love of cameras and the images he made with them. I’d like to think my journey also reflects his points of view on life and today I’m going to take this advice he left and spread some jam.
It’s been about three years since I started learning photography and during this time I’ve gotten to know some of the most generous people you’ll ever meet. It’s one of Photography’s hidden secrets and until you venture in, you won’t uncover it. Thank you to all of you who have been a part of my journey giving me encouragement and support. Every comment you’ve left here on my blog has given me pause to think and reflect. For those who gave me the straight goods on my images and pushed me to be better, you have helped me grow as a photographer and I’m very grateful. Many of you understand my passion and I appreciate you letting me be a part of your journey. Your willingness to share your own stories helps me learn something every day.
A special thank you to Ray Ketcham for the photograph in today’s post. It beautifully represents my father’s legacy to me. And I don’t look half bad either 
Is there someone who made a difference in your journey as a photographer? Don’t wait to pin a rose in their button-hole. Tell them today.
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Mark Krajnak, marcoryan, Erik Kerstenbeck, Stuart Sipahigil and others. Stuart Sipahigil said: RT @SabrinaHenry: Spreading some jam on my blog today http://bit.ly/chWpv4 How about you? [...]
You know, Sabrina, a lot of people will support me in saying that YOU deserve that rose.
Hope you have a day of happy memories!
The people we love shape us more that we know.
Love your last line Eli. So true…
I like that “my father’s legacy.” and, I have never seen this poem before, so thanks for sharing it. You are so right, this web of photographers has helped me grow as and individual and photographer. Their supportive comments and encouragement is also part of the reason I keep at this craft. I do look forward to your postings and images, they nurture me and bring joy to my soul. Your father would be proud of your impact on so many people. Spread the jam!
I love the people that pop in here Monte…they’re just like the folks who visit you. Birds of a feather I think…
Very grateful for your generosity, Sabrina. It’s made a difference on my own journey.
Peace
I agree with Eli. I am so grateful for the community you have brought together on your blog. It’s my favorite place to visit. Your posts and images always make me think. And I so appreciate the respect, humor, support, and kindness found among your commenters. You attract them, Sabrina. Thank you. I hope you are wearing a rose today.
Thank you Dorothy. Not long now until we get to meet!
Great post, Sabrina. Thank you for the reminder that we should celebrate each other now while it will make a difference, not tomorrow or next week or next year.
A beautiful poem and a great reminder. I am sure your dad would love what you are doing with your photography.