The Legacy Poem by Sidi Mahtrow

On her dying bed, mother dearest
Drew a pledge from the nearest
(A daughter who sought for her, peaceful rest)
That she would fulfill this last request.

'Preserve for all to see
What was most important to me,
Our family estate; debt free
To be preserved, in posterity.

Keep it as the family's home
A place where all weary come
To be refreshed, when alone
And, remember this passing one.

Sell it not and do not encumber,
With burdens of debt to rend asunder,
Maintain it in honor of your mother
Who lived here with your blessed father.'

Then like a yoke upon an oxen weighed
The significance of this wish that was pledged,
A burden that could not be shared
One that must by the daughter, be endured.

As she came to realize
The daughter was caught in the legacy's vice
Her loving pledge, proved most unwise,
As the decision came with a most high price.

When the bills and rents came due
And profits were found to be but few,
The daughter wondered what it was she could do.
How to abide by her pledge, she had not a clue.

All expected her mother's wishes for her to abide,
And hold for them the home; the family pride
Maintain it in splendor with doors, open wide.
(Although when asked to share cost, away they shied.)

The family said. 'Thank you just the same,
We prefer to keep it just as plain
The house is yours to share,
And share it we will without a care.

Please replace the roof and paint the house,
Your mother would like it to be attractive, never mind the cost.
Perhaps you might install a swimming pool.
As the summer heat, is most cruel.

By the way, we are planning a big bash.
And find ourselves, a bit short of cash
As the guest list is mighty long
Could you sort of tag along
And pick up the expenses we have charged
To your account and then;
Make sure the place is clean as a pin.

Oh how happy we are that you and your blessed mother
Thought to provide a home for us from near and far.
And, another thing,

Please put some fresh flowers from all of us
on your mother's grave.