The Train of Tomorrow

This would have to come as close as any written words to explain how I see my life, despite my mistakes and missteps. You're welcome to join me at the front of the train!

The Train of Life

At birth we boarded the train and met our parents,

And we believe they will always travel on our side.

However, at some station

Our parents will step down from the train,

Leaving us on this journey alone.

As time goes by,

Other people will board the train;

And they will be significant i.e.

Our siblings, friends, children

And even the love of your life.

Many will step down

And leave a permanent vacuum.

Others will go so unnoticed

That we don't realize

They vacated their seats.

This train ride will be full of joy,

Sorrow, fantasy, expectations,

Hellos, goodbyes and farewells.

Success consists of having a good relationship

With all passengers

Requiring that we give the best of ourselves.

The mystery to everyone is:

We do not know at which station we ourselves will step down.

So, we must live in the best way,

Love, forgive and offer the best of who we are.

It is important to do

This because when the time comes for us to step down

And leave our seat empty

We should leave behind beautiful memories

For those who will continue to travel on the train of life.

I wish you a joyful journey on the train of life.

Reap success and give lots of love.

More importantly, thank God for the journey.

Finally, I thank you

For being one of the passengers on my train.

-Author Unknown

(By the way, I am not planning to get off the train anytime soon, but if I do, just remember I am glad you were part of my journey.)

Jim Thompson has been doing a radio feature called “The Good Stuff” for over a decade. This newspaper version has been published in western South Dakota for the past three years. Jim has a long affiliation in De Smet. He has been the “voice” for De Smet Farm Mutual radio ads since 1976.