1

2

3

Poems and Songs

From The Heart

There was a time when people seemed

to pay enough attention to poems, that

they would even listen to them on the radio. I

had such a program on my Radio stations

KMAM-AM 1530, and KMOE-FM 92.that's in the past

But I still write...poems, songs, books.

I suppose I've written 200 songs; a few of them here,

about any and every subject that comes to mind, and so in

this book, you'll find all kinds.

So there should be some to your liking. Oh...and I

should warn you...I'm old fashioned,

so my poems rhyme.

That'll keep them off the best-seller lists!

Bill Thornton

4

So we all search for treasure, of size beyond measure

But at last, if we're lucky, we find

The things that are dear, are waiting right here,

And we wonder why we are so blind

The Treasure, Page 110

5

INDEX, PAGE ONE

8 Daddy's Shoes 9 To Know Myself 10 A) Good Knot-tying Wife 11 Always Forever 12 Angel of Music 13 Apples of Gold 14 Armour Bearer 1 5 Arkie 16 At Least They're Here 17 The) Authority 18 Belated Birthday 19 Better Days 20 Branson 21 Broken Hearts Repaired 22 Brousing 24 The Businessman 25 Butler 1975 27 Childlike Faith 28 Come Next Spring 29 Cowboy Dreams 30 Dad, To Me {Melody) 31 Thoughts 32 Diamonds 33 Golden Friendship 34 Do We Remember HHS 36 Dog Heaven 37 The) Reward 39 The Dream 38 Dream Again 40 Drive A Nail 41 Earth Angels 42 Elegy 43 The Exchange 44 Faith

45 Fiftieth Anniversary 46 Fifty-third Anniversary 47 Fifty-three 150 48 Fifty-two 49 Forever Is Just A Heartbeat 50 Forgiven 51 Four-O 52 Friday 53 God Loves Everyone 54 Going Home For Christmas 55 Golden Memories 56 Good Times 57 The Great Physician 58 He Wants Your Love 59 Heart Specialist 60 The Hills 61 Hometown Christmas 62 I Find No Fault In Him 63 If, After Today 64 I'll Follow You 65 Influence 66 Job 38 67 Just One Life 68 Kids Need A Grandma 69 The Letter 70 {song) A Little Like You 71 Living Bible 72 Lonely Church 73 Louise 1993 74 Louise 63rd 75 My Valentine 76 Love Forever {song) 77 Love

6

INDEX, PAGE TWO 78 Lullaby For Fathers 79 Lynda 80 Memories of Mom & Dad 81 Y’all Come 82 Never 83 No Gifts 84 The) Nursery 85 Only Two? 86 Three Day Party 87 The) Pastor 88 Pat's Birthday 89 Patchwork Quilt {song) 90 The Patient 91 Pouring Back 92 The) Saddest Hour 93 Santa, The Mystery 94 School Reunion 95-96 Self Portrait 97 She Didn't Think I Heard 98 Special Guest 99-100 The Star & the Five

Dreams 101 The Star {song) 102 Still Waters {song) 103 Success 104 Sunday School Lesson 105 The) Taneycomo 106 The) Teacher 107 Thank You 108 The) Exchange 109 The) Pastor 110 The) Test 111-113The Treasure 114 The) Tiger 115 Time For Things 1 1 6 T o A W i f e 117 To Know Myself

120 The Torch 121 Toto and the Bad Witch 122 Over God's Rainbow 123 Try Mine 124 Unconditional Love 125 The Warrior 126 What If 127-128 What Have A Flag 129 Wife--Mother 130 Melody of Love 131 Star Light, Star Bright 132 Elusive Butterfly 133 New Song 134 Still Our Starlett 135 All Grown Up 136 The Comb 137 Stardust 138 Dependency 139 When Daddy Prays 140 I Tried 141 Regret 142 Letter From Heaven 143 Bulletin Shorts (Thru 155) 144 When the Lord Begins 145 Old Wile E. Coyote 146 Independence 147 Santa Doesn't Have the Time 148 Bus Drivers 149 As People Spread 150 6 Hours to Drive 151 In Fifty Three 152 Winter Sleepy Heads 153 When People Marry 154 When Get to Heavens Gate 155 It’s Jesus’ Birthday

118 To The Retiring Minister 119 To Yesterday

7

INDEX, PAGE THREE

156 PUPPY LOVE 157 A LOVING HEART 158 THE SERGEANT'S GOLD BARS 159 WHAT CAN I CALL HER 160 PITY EVE 161 I DIDN'T GET THROUGH SINGING 162 WHISPERS 163 HAPPY BIRTHDAY, OCTOGENARIAN 164 OLD ENOUGH TO DIE 165 HIS WAY 166 OUR UNITED STATES 167 EIGHTY-THREE 168 I DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH MY HANDS 169 SELF PORTRAIT (PAGE 95) UPDATED 170 SIXTY-FIRST ANNIVERSARY 171 THAT’S THE AMERICA I KNOW 172- MY BIG BROTHER (ROSEMARY-ALL ON ONE PAGE)

173 MELODY JUNE 4, 2014 174 THE PATIENT 175 HAPPY TWO-DAY 176. THAT SAYS IT ALL 177 CUPID SONNET 178 STAY WITH ME 179 BT LAST WORDS 180 MY LOVE FOR LOUISE 181 COME NEXT SPRING 182 GOD’S WORD—AND THERE IT STANDS 183 BT PIC, EMAIL AND WEBSITE ADDRESSESr 184 INSIDE, BACK COVER 185 OUTSIDE BACK COVER

8

Daddy's Shoes

When I was young, I'd try on Daddy's shoes...

I'd scoot around, and everyone would smile.

They'd pat me on the head and say, {amused)

"Don't worry, you'll grow to them, after while"

But now, a lot of years have come and gone,

And looking at His life, it's plain to see...

As hopefully, again I try them on...

His shoes I find...are still too big for me

Bill Thornton

9

To Know Myself

I haven't lived too bad a life,

But neither have I been too good.

I've followed in my Daddy's steps,

But not as closely as I should...

And calls from Christ to make Him first

Still prove to be my highest test;

To reason that I'm not the worst,

Proves only that I'm not the best...

And though I want to, still I lag,

Not knowing my own mind, it seems...

As one foot moves, the other drags;

While one hand helps, the other schemes...

My mind investigates the world;

My heart resents, with tenderness...

By day my heartstrings argue "no,"

By night my nature cries out "yes"

If I can ever gain the will...

The moral strength to conquer me...

I hope the Lord can use me still...

This is my prayer...my humble plea.

37BT Bill Thornton

(Note: The “Calling” came after retirement

“Website Missionary” www.billthorntonconquests.com

10

A Good Knot-tying Wife

There's a poem that says that when life has gone wrong,

And you've come to the end of your rope,

To just tie a knot.in the end of that strand,

And keep on having hope, and more hope.

But it's hard to hold on, with one of your hands,

With just one left for saving your life.

And the only way out, that I really see,

Is to have a good knot-tying wife.

A woman who holds to another old line,

That says men are just grow-up boys.

A woman who sees these shortcomings of mine

And helps, while foregoing life's joys

A wife who can look back at when she was young,

And happy, and well, and carefree.

And still not be harsh with the fellow who came

With a ring, and a house, and a key

And now with the freedom of youth fled away,

As my wrinkles and gray hair appear,

I hope she is glad that I got them for her,

And knows that I'm glad she is here.

It's been sixty-one years since we each made our vow And

some good, and some bad, is our lot,

But I'd like her to know that I wouldn't change now

She's so practiced at .tying a knot

B. D. Thornton March 2014

11

Always, Forever

Always, forever...I love thee,

Strong as the strongest tall oak tree,

This is the first day...empty of tears,

May life be lovely as this first hundred years.

Always, forever, thee I love,

To help and protect with a strength from above,

We'll face life together, to win over fears,

And may our togetherness be a love that endures.

Sure as the flowers bloom in the field,

Sure as the church bell on Sunday will peal,

Sure as the choice we have made is ideal,

Just as sure are we that. this love is real.

Always, forever, our love will live,

Always in fairness to take and to give,

Now is our moment as you take my ring,

Store in your heart the mem'ry...this day will bring.

37BT Bill Thornton

12

Angel Of Music

In the bible I've read there are angels among us

Sent to encourage; to help us along.

Maybe this sweet teacher's heart made her promise

That she'd be our angel;.an Angel of Song

See how she molded us; filled us with rhythm

See how with patience, she worked out her plan

Brought us together, with music inspiring us

Lifting our spirits, as only songs can

Think for a moment; aren't we now better for it?

Didn't her life stamp our hearts, alll along?

What would our time here, have been without music?

Surely this lady is .our Angel of Song!

Bill Thornton

To Mrs. S. L. Richardson, Glee Club Director

Hoxie High School in the 1940's

13

Apples Of Gold

For the apples of gold

{Those words fitly spoken)

That you gave to me

When I was a lad...

Here, on account,

Is another small token,

But I'll never repay

What I owe to you, Dad.

B. D. Thornton

Father's Day Prov. 25:11

14

The Armor Bearer {Ephesians. 6:11)

All down through the years, we've heard stories of men

Who have suffered all things for The Lord,

While back in the shadows, sits a part of their strength,

Overlooked...and too often, ignored.

A Dear One who washes and then mends again

The shirt that has long been threadbare,

And tells him the offering should buy shoes for him

When she too, has nothing to wear.

The Mother who cooks, when there's nothing to cook...

Who prays with him, then understands

And gives him the courage to stand up again

When he almost would throw up his hands...

The warrior who fights on her knees, with her prayers...

Who helps him exalt Christian ways,

Who tells him the Lord will see them both through

And has faith that there'll be better days.

It's the preacher who wears the whole armor of God,

And having done all, can still stand,

And we know that The Lord will give Dad his reward,

But my Mom will be at his right hand.

Bill Thornton

15

Arkie

Well, I reckon that the tales on Northeast Arkansas are right,

Cause mosquitoes there can carry you away into the night...

And that old Black River bottom's got its floodin' times all wrong;

It would drive us Arkies crazy if we didn't have a song.

It's so flat you see tomorrow, standin' in your stockin' feet,

But the tradeoff is the honeysuckle vines a'smelling' sweet,

And the way the people make you have the feelin' you belong,

When they get a guitar down and tune it up for one more song.

Yes, it makes all of the difference to see mist there on the river,

And the moon a pumpkin-yellow in the night can make you shiver...

When the shadows of the big oaks make reflections like a throne,

You'll be glad that you're an Arkie, and you'll proudly call it home.

Oh, a lot of tales are told on good old Northeast Arkansas,

But I haven't found a place on earth that didn't have some flaw,

And so I take my stand where everyone knows right from wrong,

Where there's music in the people, and they make it with a song.

Bill Thornton

16

At Least They're Here

The kids had got to talking

On the back seat of the church

And I was sure someone should

Tan their backsides with a birch

Then a different thought came to me

And it almost brought a tear...

They may talk and giggle freely,

But...thank God...at least they're here!

Bill Thornton October

17

The Authority

I'm no cowboy, but I reckon

I know all there is to know

Cause I've read a stack of westerns...

Seen my share of movie shows

I can tell a cowboy hero

By the shape of hat or head

And I know how many close ones

He has had from six-gun lead

I know horses from their gallop

Recognize 'em by their sound

Know their names and know their colors

Oh, I guess I've been around...

If I'd let 'em, folks would write me Why,

I'd need a full time staff

Just to tell the things I know,

and Kids would want my autograph

I'm a cowboy 'cyclopedia

Though I'm tryin' not to show it

I'm so cowboy-smart, I'm famous

But not many people know it.

Bill Thornton

18

Belated Birthday

If I could take all of my faults

And put them in a mall

They'd have to move the walls because

It wouldn't hold them all

If I remembered all the dates

That's slipped my memory

I'd put them in some giant crates

And ship them out to sea

If I could change, I'd surely do it

But it seems that it's too late

Someone ought to hold me to it

How To keep your special date

So Mom, be like you've always been

And do like you've always done

Forgive, and chalk it up again

To your forgetful son.

37BT Bill Thornton

19

Better Days

There are peaks and there are valleys

Representing joys and tears

But dear heart, just please remember

Jesus loves you; still is near.

Loves us even with our errors

Takes us back in spite of all

Like a mother hen, whose clucking

Brings her chicks each time she calls.

What if God erased the past years

Took all memory away.

No...He lets you keep those good times

Times to love, as Heaven waits

Every body's world gets lonesome

Even Christ had many tears

But a brighter time is coming

Never doubt. and never fear.

Bill Thornton

20

Branson

There was a time when Branson slept, quite silently,

While farmers in their patches dreamed of things to be

Not realizing that their gold was not beneath the ground,

Nor dreaming that their music would become their crown.

For years they thought the Ozarks did them wrong. Then fate brought out

their fiddles and their songs And one by one the stories woke up distant

ears, That beauty in those hills is both to see and hear.

And as the secret of the hills unveiled and brought the world

To this new doorstep, where songs of life unfurled

Those mountaineers gave freely of historic lore

Of misty beauty, through an open door

Now presidents and students come to rendezvous

And people bring their music here to start careers anew

Where dulcimer and neon have embraced with star and clown

And families at last can meet on common ground.

Ah, if the world could learn the lesson offered here

That work and play can live in mutual atmosphere

That Everyman can find his niche in such a place,

Where love and peace and harmony embrace.

Bill Thornton

{concerning Branson's change, when music invaded)

21

Broken Hearts Repaired

I gave Christ a broken heart

Each time I turned away...

Still He cared and He repaired

My broken heart today.

His was crushed because of me...

Mine, because I strayed.

Now two hearts in love agree...

Repaired...when someone prayed.

Wanted...broken hearts...

Cares and burdens shared...

Bring your hearts to Christ...

Broken hearts repaired.

Christ made me a work of art...

Of exquisite design.

Christ gave me a brand new heart

When...I gave Him mine.

I gave Christ my broken heart,

And He made it new...

And oh, what He...has done for me...

He can do for you.

{Is Also in song form)

Bill Thornton

22

Brousing

I love to brouse through craft shops

Just to see what I can see

Hoping I will find a treasure

That's the perfect thing for me

I look for just the color

And it has to fit the scheme

The decor of what I'm fixing

So it will enhance the theme.

Wouldn't it be something special

If we'd shop that carefully

for the ways to treat each other

Christian love...for you and me?

If we shopped for old-time kindness

And for smiles the world could see

We'd become the kind Christ wanted

...Loving personalities!

Bill Thornton

23

Golden Friendship

Our friendship began in the "tattered days"

With holes at our elbows and knees

And jeans that were torn, weren't really the style

And bowl haircuts were...necessities

Our toys were stilts and kites and play guns

And little boats made from tin cans

Most of them, were first born in our minds

Like our parents, we lived off the land

I knew you first back in our marble game days

And then on bikes we earned as "paper" boys

Then when thinking turned to girls in our teens

How a smile from them replaced all our toys

Then wedding bells revised the lives that we led

A girl named Billie and a lovely named Louise

Took us in directions new to us all

And with them, responsibilities

Friends are those who listen when you talk

Or if you're quiet, still can understand

And know what to repeat, or store away

Accepting both the common and the grand

Here's to our Friendship, like our wedding vows

Through thick and thin, or whatever way

We're better people from our knowing you

And happy for your very Special Day

bt 12-24-1996

Dick Billie{Neeley)Martin 5Oth

Bill and Dick; friends forever

24

The Businessman

Well, it's over. Yes, it's over.

How I wish that I could change it.

But the past has left its footstep,

And I cannot rearrange it.

New careers care not for families,

And they want your every moment.

And the years that change your children,

Leave no way to make atonement.

Now that work is less demanding;

made secure by years of labor,

Now with time for my own children,

They have their own lives to savor.

No more stories read at bedtime,

No more "Lay me down to sleep" prayer,

No more hugs as off they toddle;

Just in memory can I be there.

How my heart cries for their love now;

Wakes me in the night to say it.

Haunts my pen and makes me write now.

Fills my music, makes me play it.

Makes my singing sad and halting,

Makes my poems show my sorrow,

Now I plead that they forgive me

And please love me for tomorrow.

Life is such a clowning jumble,

"Time" and "Need" so oft reversing.

Can my wife and children see how

Fate has muddled its disbursing?

Now I pray they understand it,

So my thoughts can sooth and calm me.

Thinking it was for their future,

I was taking my own from me.

Billy D. Thornton

25

Butler 1975

Years, and more years, have faded away,

since eighteen forty-five...

When Kennett built the first little house,

where Butler Missouri would thrive...

A jumping-off place in the year forty-nine,

for the men who would sell out their soul,

And as they headed west, they stopped here to rest,

in their race to be first, to the gold.

Then more settlers came, and they liked what they saw,

and by year fifty-six, it had grown

To a size that deserved to be given a name,

and for General Butler 'twas known.

So a foothold was made, but it wasn't to last,

because war came to burn it all down.

And "Order Eleven" sent people away,

to leave nothing of county, or town.

But wars have a way of ending, and when.

the folks came back home again,

To rebuild the town and the houses and schools,

and they vowed that this time, they would stand.

An electric plant then, in the year eighty-one,

and we led all the West with that power,

And the beacon that shone in the big prairie sky,

made Butler...the town of the hour.

{continued next page)

26

An opera house, seating a thousand was built,

in the good year eighteen eighty-two,

And ladies, gowned in the styles of the day,

added class to a city still new.

But with people came trouble, and with that, came the law,

and the sentence was hanging, back then...

And history records that tickets were sold, to

witness such deaths for two men.

And still more confusion, when the first car appeared,

and a wagon it happened to meet,

And the scare and the noise caused a law to be made,

that no cars could run on our street.

One more date I would give...ninety-seven the year,

the old-timers first picked a way

To remember their past, and the times they held dear,

and they called it their "Old Settlers Day."

Now we're here once again, to honor those men,

and those women who made Butler great...

To the farmers and town folk who made this fine place,

the best county, and town in the state

Bill Thornton, for Old Settlers Day 1975,

and repeated at the Butler Sesquicentennial 2OO6

Added...

Then history stepped, for Butler again

And a Solar Farm came into being

Two-thousand and fourteen changed the way things had been

It was history again they were seeing!

27

Childlike Faith

Kids see pixies on the lawn

They know where elves have come and gone

And they can feel a waft of air

And know an Angel's passing there

This Christmas Time, if I could choose

I'd want to share those children's views

For it's with childlike faith, we see

The Christ child sent to you and me.

Bill Thornton

28

Come Next Spring

Come next spring, good times we'll gather

Like a bouquet from a field.

There are pleasant times to savor...

Let's remember Life is Real.

"Come next Spring"...Do you remember

How we used to dream that way?

"Come next Spring," not realizing

Our springtime should be today.

Let's not lay plans on tomorrow...

Whether we should go or stay...

That's a time that we can't borrow...

Let's use next spring's time today.

Come next spring, my dear, I'll love you

Just as much as I do now...

There'll be lots of flowers for picking

And the Lord will show us how.

37BT Bill Thornton October 1982

29

Cowboy Dreams

Cowboys? Why, horses we couldn't afford

The things we kids rode were a skate 'neath a board

Though life was manure, why, the diggin' we'd share

Cause we knew that there must be a pony somewhere...

Horses? Oh, we saw us a few rodeos,

But the wild west we got was in old movie shows.

As for leather, well, we shined a few soldiers shoes

When they'd come to Hoxie, out lookin' for booze.

A fellow called Doc, and another named Bill

Kids without money, a future to build...

Not dreaming that war, so despised as a rule

Would give us a life, and would send us to school.

How little we dreamed that our futures would gird

And influence minds with our books and our words

How we'd spend both our lives working man-made alloys

Of souls and the minds of a few girls and boys

Bill Thornton October 15, 1992 {Broadcasting)

{written for Doc Manning, {with Laidlaw Books}

about our childhoods in Hoxie)

30

Dad, To Me

Young boys...they have their daydreams—-Of what they someday they'll be

A track star or a pilot—Or a sailor on the sea...

Young men...they have their daydreams—Of what someday they'll be...

A preacher or a singer—Or a pharmacy degree...

Old men...they live on memories—Of dreams to never be...

And Dad...he used his daydreams—Taking care of Mom and me.

But to me, he was a track star.—He ran me here and there... Never giving it a worry—And he never seemed to care.

And to me, he was a pilot—Soaring in the night...

Flying to my rescue—Whenever I felt fright.

To me, he was a preacher—His Bible by his chair...

Telling me the stories—And reading what was there.

To me, he was a singer—His stage: the kitchen floor...

With songs I still remember—Drifting through my bedroom door.

To me, he never needed dreams—For I knew just what he'd be...

To me, he would be Daddy—And that was good enough for me.

May 20, 1992-Your Daughter, Melody

31

Thoughts

We are consoled that this day's loss

Is not at all "goodbye"

It's just a temporary change To a

Heavenly Butterfly

To never hear that voice again?

No going out; no coming in?

You’ll meet again...we’ll cross the the bar

Dear One...that’s what Heaven’s for!

Memory is a miracle to remind me

Like a bridge that can’t be burned behind me

Sometimes a self too long remembers

And wrestles with undying embers

An ember fanned by mem’ry cannot die

No matter how the carrier may try

And tho, to ease the pain,

time would forget

Good moments we remember...linger yet

bt

32

Diamonds

Diamonds are not forever;

That story isn't true...

It's a tale from the Land Of Never.

It's just a point of view.

The tide won't roll forever;

The shore will disappear...

And philosophies so clever

No longer will be here.

But Heaven is forever;

We look up without fear.

And mysteries we never..

Will finally be clear.

Bill Thornton

33

Golden Friendship

Our friendship started in the tattered days

When holes were at our elbows and our knees

And jeans already torn were not the style

And bowl haircuts were just necessities

Our toys were stilts and kites and "rubber" guns

And little boats made from tobacco cans

Most of them first born in our minds

For like our parents, we lived off the land

I knew you first back in our marble days

And then on bikes we earned as "paper" boys

Then in our teens when thinking turned to girls

And how a smile from them replaced our toys

Then wedding bells revised the lives we led

A girl named Billie and another named Louise

Took us in directions new to us

And with them, new responsibilities

Friends are those who listen when you talk

Or if you're quiet, still can understand

And know what to repeat, or store away

Accepting both the common and the grand

Here's to our Friendship...like your wedding vows

Through thick and thin, or in whatever way...

We're better people from our knowing you

And happy for your Very Special Day

Bill and Louise Thornton Dec 24, 1996

50th Anniversary of Dick and Billie Martin

34

Do We Remember Hoxie High {song)

Hoxie high, the Green and White, Babe Oldham always late

About our only worry was, if we could get a date

Harold Johnson makes A-Plus; Mrs. Benish's southern drawl

I remember, don't you all...

Fightin' the German, school house burnin, Scout Troop Thirty Nine

P.Dub's fame and jump-or-down games, and Beta Club was fine

Holy cow, Mrs. Purdy now...makin' us learn to spell

We remember...all too well!

All of us on Roy Doyle's bus...kissin' on the girls

Singin' songs like "Tell Me Why"...in hair, the style was curls

Cecil Goodrum throws a baseball for three hundred feet

Ah, boy, that was really neat.

Billy Buster and Aleta Poe...Patsy Camp was cute

Jack Kissee and Golden Gloves, couldn't Dennis Sullens shoot!

Always broke, splittin' a coke...there's cowgirl Betty Lou

Kid you not, this all is true.

William Horton hitting the line on three plays out of four

Twelve on two, football or girls, we couldn't seem to score

Goodie and Windy, Babe and Wallace, Thornton, Dick and Paul

Lots the games but had a ball.

{continued next page)

35

{continued from preceding page)

Betty Zo Cargill breakin' line, and Maxine Longmire's smile

Mrs. Mills directing plays; we nearly drove her wild

Daphene Taylor and her sweaters, she could get her man

Boy, oh boy, ain't sweet love grand...

Billie Wanda Neely came to visit Freda Sauls

Dickie Martin took one look, and brother, that was all

Turn your pants legs up two rolls, and white sox underneath

Thinkin' back, I say "Good grief!"

Louise Manning leadin' cheers, Mrs. Richardson and choir

Mrs. McFadden wore no paddin, Doc Manning and Verna Myer

Pappy Felts, narrow belts, remember your first kiss

Memories are made of this.

Joy Bruce dancin' kids romancin' on the high school stage

Havin' a ball, dog in the hall, and Mrs. Stark in a rage

Dodd's Ice Cream is like a dream; us jitterbuggin' then

Ah, don't you remember when...

Walcott thrills, strollin' the hills, the old Mustang Cafe

Warner's drugs, the crackerbox bus, depot across the way

Knock knock jokes {who's there) Dewey {Dewey who)

Do we, do we remember these {Yes we do)

Ah, do we remember these.

B. D. Thornton 6 20 72

36

Dog Heaven

Will your dog be part of Heaven?

There are arguments on this...

Many feel, if Heaven's perfect,

Dogs will help provide that bliss.

In the Bible there's a verse that

Says love won't demand its way,

Is not mean, or unforgiving,

And when trouble looms, will stay.

Is there one you know who's like that?

Sticking closer than a brother?

One who'll lick the hand that beats him?

Truer, even than your mother?

Loves his master, sick or healthy?

Loves one who forgets to feed him?

Follows, whether poor or wealthy?

Faithful when his master needs him?

Yes, the love and the devotion,

Taught in every Bible story,

Found in pedigree or mongrel,

Should be part of Heaven's Glory.

B. D. {Bill) Thornton

37

The Reward

Like the veteran of battle,

Resting, with his battle scars,

So the Preacher, in retirement,

Can recall victorious wars.

How at times his only weapon

Was the Shield of Faith he bore,

How at times his Sunday clothing

Was the one frayed suit he wore.

But the sweetest mem'ries in him,

are of years he freely gave.

To the Lord, when as His Soldier,

he became a willing slave.

When came time for his retiring,

No loud cheers proclaimed The Day

No salute...no speech...no medals…

no parades to line the way.

But these aren't the things that matter.

Skip the cheering and the bands.

His reward is in safe keeping...

a reward not made with hands.

BT Bill Thornton

38

Dream Again

A lot of years have come and gone A lot

of tears I've shed, and then Just

when I think I'm rid of you

I go and dream again

I fill my days with other things

Crowd out "what might have been"

But with the night and restless sleep

I go and dream again

And why can't I forget those times

So full of bittersweet

Why, after what you've done to me

Would I fall at your feet

Now I'm a slave to memory

I sweep my mind, but then

Just when I'm sure you're out of me

I sleep, and dream again

BTThornton

39

The Dream

Today it seemed all things went wrong

And I complained the whole day long.

Life was unkind to me it seemed,

But then I slept...and dreamed a dream.

I thought I woke and couldn't see,

I was a slave, no longer free.

My world was gone, and I was led

From room to room; from chair to bed.

The lesson still to me was dim...

My mind still didn't think of Him.

My sorrow still was all for me...

I knew there was a wrong...what could it be.

And then came still another fear;

It seemed that now, I couldn't hear.

All sound was gone...in agony

I shed a silent tear...for me.

And yet again my heart grew weak,

For in this dream, I couldn't speak.

Gone was my chance to pray aloud,

And now I stood, no longer proud...

The lesson still to me was dim...

My mind still didn't think of Him

My sorrow still was al for me

Until I thought of His...Gethsemane.

My dream is past; I'm wiser now.

I've bowed my head; I've made my vow.

If I can hear, and speak, and see,

Then God is good...so good to me.

Bill Thornton

40

Drive A Nail {Song)

Drive a nail in the hands and the feet of the Lord

It's easy...so easily...done

And the sound of the hammer will strike a new chord

And a new work for satan is begun...

Now first, let's take sides against folks that are new

Be jealous of blessings they share

Judge them quickly...remember, it just can't be true

That people like them will be there.

Don't speak to the people who visit your church;

Love your own group...don't study the Word...

Get mad when you're wrong, and don't bother to read

Through the Book...just believe what you've heard...

Drive a nail in the hands and the feet of the Lord

It's easy...so easy...to do

But think...will the sound of the nail strike a chord

That the person out of tune...will be you.

You can feel justified for the tales that you tell,

Though people and faith be destroyed...

For you don't call it gossip; it's your way to tell

Young Christians...the things to avoid...

But you're driving a nail in the hands of the Lord,

And it's easy...so easy...to do.

But know as the sound of the nail strikes a chord,

That the pain in His heart, is for you.

37BT Bill Thornton

41

Earth Angels

If the ladies of our church

Were put in a quilt of stars,

What a wonderful array,

These dear Angels we call ours!

Tints of beauty...like a diamond,

And each color represents.

Needs we have, here in our worship,

And each soul is Heaven-sent.

Patch on patch and row on row now,

Our church quilt is sewn with prayers...

And each stitch has stored there with it,

Precious memories, unawares.

Mem'ries sweet, and mem'ries sour,

Norma's speeding ticket prayer...

Ruth Rob's baking by the hour,

Judy's black eye, shining there...

Sorry that some names are missing...

Hope it won't give you the blues...

If you'd get into more trouble,

Then you too, might make the news!

Bill Thornton

42

Elegy

Strange, how, in knowing you

I seemed to claim all of your family...

And now, in losing one of yours

I've also lost a special part of me.

Years only slightly dim my thoughts

Like windows, fogged by summer showers...

I see your Dad as when we all were young,

And time stands still.....for those most gentle hours.

Bill Thornton

43

The Exchange

What would I like to do for you...

What gift, this Mother's Day...

I'd like to take the cares you bear

And throw them all away.

I'd like to wave a wand and say

You'll never sigh again,

And ah, if it were in my power, Mom...

You'd never suffer pain.

Your garden would be full of flowers

Each month of every year,

And life would never give you cause

To shed the smallest tear.

But those are not my gifts to give...

The Lord has those for later.

They are the things you're working for

By serving Our Creator.

Thinking now it isn't fair,

In our getting each other...

In me, you only got a son...

But me...I got a Mother

Bill Thornton

44

Faith

Lord, there's no one I can talk to...

None to tell my secret thoughts to...

Not one man who'd understand me;

None to talk to Lord, but You.

Yet I pray and hear no answer..

Now I fail to understand.

How can faith so weak, remember

That the future's in your hand.

Help me Lord, and I say, help me...

Help Thou Lord, my unbelief...

Make my load a little lighter;

Help me understand my grief.

Bill Thornton

45

Fiftieth Anniversary-Mom & Dad

Fifty years ago this autumn, In October's bright blue weather, Mom and Dad made their decision, Vowed they'd spend their life together.

Soon Dad felt a Godly calling, In his heart a new sensation,

Felt The Lord pluck at his heartstrings,

For his life an alteration.

First he fought with all his being, Pointed to his education,

Told The Lord he couldn't do it,

Heard The Lord's calm revelation...

Saying, "Come into The Vineyard, You are chosen as My Preacher,

Only bring your dedication,

Come, and I will be Your Teacher.

Still he ran, and hid, and reasoned, Spent his burdened hours kneeling,

'There beside Lake Taneycomo,

Said "Yes" to that burning feeling.

All the years since that decision, Mom and Dad have shared The Calling,

Faced the lean times and the good times,

With no thought of ever falling.

Mom and Dad, we love you dearly, Love you for The Way you've taught us,

Love you for the prayers said for us,

This you never could have bought us.

May this life stay pleasant for you, With your children's love a token, Of a future life together, With The Circle still unbroken

Bill Thornton

46

Fifty-third Anniversary 3-8-O6

We made our vows in fifty-three

And fifty-three have passed

It doesn't seem that long, My Dear

I think our love will last!

BDT Sixty-first Anniversary

Sixty-one and counting, Dearest

Remember ninteen fifty-three?

And now Mel,and Star, and Laura

Make our perfect family

Year by year we learned together

Lovers, parents, tender care

Through the sun and rainy weather

We have really made a pair!

3-8-14

47

Fifty-three

In 'fifty-three, the year that we

Made vows to stick together,

We didn't know we'd test it so

And you'd have such "bad weather."

I've hurt with you and prayed for you.

I'm sorry you've been ill,

But things are looking up, My Dear,

Your loving husband,

Bill

B. D. Thornton March 8, 1979

48

Fifty-two Years

Funny, what a "five" and "two"

Written, side by side, will do

Bringing memories to our minds

Leaving lesser things behind

When I was young, I had a prayer

That God would place the right one there

A lady, kind, and sweet, and true

He answered.when He gave me you

Thank you, for years you've shared with me

Thank you for years you've cared for me

Thank you for daughters that rounded our life

Thank you, Louise, for being my wife

Bill Thornton March 8, 2005

49

Forever Is Just A Heartbeat Away {SONG)

Jesus...is just...one heartbeat away

But satan...it waitin' there too...

They each have a promise they're offering today,

And you may not...have a moment...to lose...

satan...promises...you'll have it now {don't you know)

Have it now...and have it all...and never pay

But his promise won't last And his pleasures quickly pass

And hell...is just one heartbeat...away.

Your forever...is just a heartbeat...away

No tomorrow, is promised; there's just...today

Your next moment may determine where you'll be {eternally)

Your forever, is just a heartbeat...away.

And then there's Jesus...waiting for you, night and day

He's a haven...of sweet rest...where you can stay

And with Heaven as our promise

satan cannon take it from us

And Heaven...is just a heartbeat...away.

BT Bill Thornton

50

Forgiven

Each day is such a trial

Each hour such a chore

I try, dear Lord, to do your will

Forgive me just once more

So many times you hear me

So many times you say

My Child, yes, I still love you

Your past I wash away

Your sins have been forgiven

You're now my cherished one

Give Me your life, completely

As I gave you My Son

37BT Bill Thornton

Inspired by words of Laura

51

Bill wrote a poem for his and Louise's

40th anniversary, but

misplaced it, and had to do another...

Four-O

It doesn't seem like forty years

This anniversary...

But as they add, remember dear,

It's me for you and you for me.

BT 3 8 93

The following Sunday when he took his place at the organ, he found the original...he then remembered that he had scribbled it on the back of the song selections during church, then turned the sheet over and forgot it. It wasn't discarded during the week, and when he found it the next Sunday, it all came back to him...

When our age was thirty-nine

We could smile and say "No more"

But an anniversary

Is a different kind of "door"

As we reach the forty mark

My love, My Bread and Wine...

May we keep the lasting spark

I'm yours, and you are mine.

37BT Bill Thornton 3 7 93

52

Friday {Song)

Why do they call me "Good Friday"

When I was the day He died...

Why do people remember me...

And the horror that happened...

on a cold hillside.

How can they bear to remember

The Day, and that cross of wood

I am That Day of nails and thorns...

I would kneel and repent if I could.

I stand in the shadow of Sunday And I am

content to be there

I bow to that Easter's glory

That no other day can share.

I am That Friday...forgive me

Wash the mem'ry; erase the stain

Only remember He died for you

And rose...and rose...again.

Bill Thornton

53

God Loves Everyone {Song)

God loves everyone

Else He would choose where flowers grow

And kings would own the shade of trees

And sparkling streams that flow

If God loved only those who please

He'd judge the sinner now

He'd only let the summer breeze

Relieve the Christian brow

If sight and smell, and taste and touch

Were for a chosen few

Were only for the rich or strong

What would we others do

But birds sing for both rich and poor

And water cleanses all

A rose will grow at any door

All share the gold of fall

God loves everyone

The sunrise is a free delight

God spreads His love on all the world

As soft as candlelight.

As soft as candlelight.

Bill Thornton

54

Going Home For Christmas

We won't go to Mom's house this Christmas time,

But our kids are coming to ours...

They said they'd be here, and we've waited all day

We've watched now, for hours and hours...

The tree lights are on and the gifts have been wrapped,

And we hope all the labels are right

We thought we were done, til we noticed that some

Were tagged wrong...kept us up half the night.

We thought we were smart, in collecting the lists

Of what everyone said they preferred

We bought everything, then half changed their minds

To think we could plan, was absurd.

Now they're here and the lights are all on again

And there's action and noise everywhere

And wrappings and dishes are strewn left and right

It's a mess, but nobody cares...

We won't be going to Mom's house again

Despite all the good times we had...

For time takes its toll; now the kids visit US...

Now WE are the Mom and the Dad.

Bill Thornton Christmas Eve 1992

55

Golden Memories

There are birthdays, with their presents...

There are anniversaries...

But the greatest gifts in this life

Are God-given memories.

We appreciate our friends who love us...

They do many things to please...

But we have a gift from Heaven...

Mom and Dad left memories.

With The Lord, patiently waiting...

Daily now, our mind's eye sees...

Knowing while they wait, we still have

Our dear parents' memories.

Bill Thornton

56

Good Times

The life I loved so very much,

That time of hand-me-downs and such,

When there was never milk enough,

Those times were poor, and sweet, and tough.

With dollars far between and few,

With time enough for feeling blue,

We found a way around the sting,

By trusting God in everything.

In winter, water froze inside the house,

And ceiling sounds just meant a mouse

was playing there, and he'd retreat

When morning brought Dad's padding feet.

At Christmas, we'd dream giant dreams

Of Santa Claus and magic schemes,

And though it wasn't filled with things,

There was content that real love brings.

And when we woke each Christmas Day,

We still had time to kneel and pray.

Dad warmed the house, then up we'd squeal,

To little...yet the joy was real.

Poor folks...in ways some others see,

But rich in sweetest memories...

The nicest years we ever had

Were as "poor kids" with Mom and Dad.

BT Bill Thornton

57

The Great Physician

God has given the physician

Knowledge equal to his zeal,

But with one great reservation...

Only GOD can heal.

God gave man the right to open,

Operate, and then to seal,

But with that, his job is over...

Only GOD can heal.

God ordained Man's high position,

Gave him miracles to wield...

But there is One Great Physician...

And by HE alone, we're healed.

37BT Bill Thornton

58

He Wants Your Love

He doesn't require the works of hands,

He wants your arms in love upraised.

He doesn't depend on the deeds of Man;

He wants you love for all your days.

He doesn't command what you shall speak;

Your tongue is free to steer you wrong.

But that betrayer of the weak,

Can be the champion of the strong.

He doesn't direct where feet will walk;

On thoroughfare or dark back street..

The path you take can praise or mock

And will denote which God you greet.

Keep striving for the higher ground;

From doubters keep yourself apart.

And they won't take away your crown,

For Christ still looks...upon the heart.

37BT Bill Thornton

59

Heart Specialist

I dreamed I went to Heaven,

and my what a surprise

Things I'd been told I wouldn't see,

all passed before my eyes

A young girl stood before the Lord,

dressed wrong, so I'd been told

But God looked past her clothes,

and saw...a heart of solid gold.

"But Lord," I tugged hard at His sleeve...

"her lipstick bothers me"

"But see her heart," The Lord replied...

"It's free of jealousy."

A Man who always dozed in church,

sat sleeping in his chair

A smiling Lord said, "Check his heart...

you'll find no envy there."

A lady knocked at Heaven's gate...

God nodded when he heard...

But she was whispering to a friend,

and didn't get the word.

Another saw a man's long hair

and turned herself about

The man walked in...the gate swung shut...

the gossip was left out.

And so I had to make a choice;

to judge by what I saw...

Or let the Lord look on the heart,

and overlook the flaw

I wrestled with it...ah, so long...

til breaking of the day

And finally agreed with him...

and so...He let me stay!

B. D. Thornton

60

The Hills

My heart longs to see the hills,

In summer warmth, or winter's chills,

Caressed with green or winter white,

Or morning dew, or soft moonlight.

And as I dream, I see them now,

Some brown and rich behind the plow,

Or stretching from a dairy barn,

All cattle-dotted, lending charm

To mem'ry, sharpened from much thought,

Of going back to peace long sought,

Of going back to all held dear,

To lakes...and cliffs...and mornings clear. How often I remember when

I walked that land. I stop, and then

My dream returns...it yearns and thrills

To see The Shepherd Of The Hills.

37BT Till Thornton

61

Hometown Christmas {Song) When I'm away, I dream of Christmas Day When I'll be going home again My dream has lots of snow, and places I must go To see all of my friends again...

Since mem'ry knows no miles, I see it even now My mind erases wrinkles, from every friendly brow We're in our teens again, with time to laugh and plan So take me back to my...home town.

I went away, but my heart seemed to stay Where I knew every face I'd meet Now, fate...please let me go... back to the ones I know Where I love every friendly street

What better way, to spend a holiday Than where my sweetest mem'ries lie New faces and new friends, out where the highway bends Are lovely, but can bring a sigh...

Since mem'ry knows no miles I see it even now My mind erases wrinkles from every friendly brow we're in our teens again with time to laugh and plan so take me back to my...home town

Bill Thornton

62

I Find No Fault In Him {Song)

Born for the world...scorned by the world...

Yet He loved us til His heartbeat grew dim...

They wanted Him dead, yet once a king said,

I find no fault in Him...

There was love even in, the clothing He wore,

There was healing, just touching the hem,

He has love for your soul...

He can make us all whole,

And I find...no fault...in Him.

{cho) Their hate made them cry,

for the blood of The Lord,

He quietly gave them His all...

His last thought; His last prayer;

His last cry; His last call

Was "My Father, forgive them all."

Yet with all of the sin

and the grief that was done,

May we live to be rightous and just,

When He comes back to judge,

all the right from the wrong,

May He find...no fault...in us.

37BT Bill Thornton 195 ?

First Gospel song written by BT

63

If After Today {A Reading)

If after today

I could never see again...

My soul would be a hungry, never-filled capacity

For birds, alight and on the wing...

For trees...bare, or ice-laden, or green with leaves

For one more look at my wife...my daughters...

A picture of vacation mountains we enjoyed...

Another night beside our tent, in campfire light...

Or seeing ripples at our feet at wading time...

If after today

No blue sky would salute me at the dawn;

No moon would shine into my eyes at night...

No stars would twinkle during nighttime walks...

Would I then know how to give God thanks

For what I once had taken without thought?

Would I know how rich I once had been...

Then? If after today.

Bill Thornton

{I can't remember when or where

this was written)

64

I'll Follow You {Song)

You've got no strings on me, my love,

No locks beneath and none above,

And yet you'll always know I'm true,

Cause everywhere you go...I'll follow you!

I didn't say that I was sure,

But still you know that I'm secure,

And when I say that we are through,

You smile because you know...I'll follow you!

{Cho) I might as well admit it...

I know the die is cast...

I tried and tried to quit it,

But my love for you will last...

I say I won't; you know I will,

I throw the key away, and still,

The tumblers click when you walk through,

Cause everywhere you go...I follow you.

37BT Bill Thornton 1957

{Melody, age three, following me,

called out to me "Daddy, everywhere you

go, I follow you.")

65

Influence

Feed and diaper, wipe his nose

Wash his hands and feet and clothes

Yet the most important thing

Once missed, goes on fleeting wings

See the meanness in the world

Lying, cursing, mean words hurled

If you aren't a guiding light

Who will teach your child The Right.

Will the one who follows you

Learn the right things he should do

If he lives where sin is king

Will he learn the better things?

Human nature born within

Knows that mankind leans to sin

Why does sound influence fail

While sin grows and goodness pales

Young souls can be quickly lost

Don't sell his at any cost!

Show him now the path to trod...

Introduce him to his God.

37BT Bill Thornton

66

Job 38

Who fathered the rain

Or the drops of dew?

The Father of these

Still careth for you.

The same God who sees

That the ravens are fed...

The One who provides

The young lions their bed...

He who has counted

Your work isn't through...

He is The God

Who still cares for you.

67

JUST ONE LIFE {Song)

3 5 5- 5 6 4 3 4 3 4 5 3

SOMETIMES YOU JUST DO THINGS...THAT PAIN AND SORROW BRING

2 3 2 3 5 2 2 3 4 5 6 7-

7

YOU WISH WITH HEART THAT BREAKS...TO ERASE THOSE BAD MISTAKES

7 8 7 6 5 4 2 4 3 4 5 3

WHAT IS IT DOWN INSIDE..THAT SAYS TO HAVE A CARE

2 3 2 3 5 2 3 4 4 3 2 1

YOU HAVE ONE LIFE TO GIVE...THERE'S JUST ONE LIFE TO SHARE

8 8 7 6 3 4 7 7 6 5 2 3

ONE LIFE AND THEN THE NIGHT...ONE CHANCE, TO DO IT RIGHT

3 6 3 6 5 4 3 4 5 6 7- 7

ONE LIFE, ONE JOURNEY, THEN...YOU'RE AT YOUR JOURNEY'S END

7 8 7 6 3 4 7 7 6 5 2 3

BUT WRONGS CAN BE ERASED...HE'S WAITING NOW FOR YOU

3 6 3 6 5 4 5 5 5 5 5 5

THE CHRIST, SO FULL OF LOVE...HAS YOUR FORGIVENESS TOO.

Bill Thornton A child, about ten years old, who had several birth defects, gave me some words she called a "poem" somewhere back in the 70's. She had written it and asked if I would make a song of it. I wrote the above, and sent her a copy on cassette.

Later, in her teens, she went very much to the bad.

I happened to be listening to one of my CD's in January of 2006

and came across the song. I pray that by some miracle,

wherever she is, that she still has that cassette and plays it, and

realizes that it was meant for HER, and that she still has

a chance to right her life. The numbers are the style I use

in all my song-writing, so I'm leaving this as is.

68

Kids Need A Grandma Close By

It's great, so they say, to just "up and away..."

Pull up stakes...move and start life anew,

New places, new friends and a new lease on life

And to see a new country or two...

A new town and school as the children grow up,

And success as the years amble by...

But two things are needed to make it complete...

A Grandma and Grandpa close by.

You can furnish the kids with their kittens and pups,

Mom can dress dolls and bake apple pie...

Kids can have holidays; they can star in school plays,

But no matter how hard you may try...

There will be two things missing...that can't be replaced,

Two things that your money can't buy...

And wherever you roam, it won't ever be "Home,"

Without a Grandma and Grandpa close by.

Bill Thornton

69

The Letter

Your letter comes

And I can hardly wait

For words of love for me

I so anticipate...

My hungry eyes

Devour each page with tears

No love is there; my heart

Sustains my fears.

No love to share

You talk of minor things;

No words to cause a heart

To soar and sing.

Ah, which is worse;

To love and then despair...

Or capture longing eyes

that never care.

Bill Thornton

70

A Little Like You {SONG)

Well I looked at myself and

I didn't like what I saw...

The Lord saw me too,

and I wondered just what He thought...

So I went to Him, and I said,

"Lord make me all new...

Make a new man of me..Lord,

make me...a little like you."

Lord give me eyes that see good,

even in my enemies {will you please)

Give me a tongue that talks good...

feet that walk good...

{And a disposition that can be understood)

Give me hands that are gentle...

a mind that is mentally calm...

A heart that's serene...

wrapped in a heavenly balm.

What a change that'll be...

when I come up looking brand new...

Lord will they know me then...

when you take out the sin...

When you make me...a little like you.

37BT Bill Thornton

71

Living Bible

I am my neighbor's Bible

He turns a page each day

And carefully, he watches me

For what I do and say.

I am my neighbor's Bible

He reads me line by line

And til I die, I must show why

I claim the Lord as mine.

37BT Bill Thornton

72

Lonely Church

The Church must be a lonely place

For Christ to wait therein,

From Sunday, when you leave Him there

Til you come back again...

The Church is such an empty place

With Sunday Service done...

The Lord stands watching with regret

As folks leave, one by one...

If you would have Him walk with you,

Then take Him when you leave...

Don't lock him in an empty church

With just your memory.

Your song, your praise, your hands upraised

Are Sunday things to do...

But what a lonely week, unless

You take Him home with you.

BT Bill Thornton

73

The judges have their answers

Their votes are all turned in…

And once more it’s unanimous…

You’re NUMBER ONE again!

37BT Bill Thornton

74

Louise's 63rd birthday May 15, 2005 Another year

Has come and gone

And you're The same sweet girl.

Let's seal it with a kiss

And give Another year a whirl!

bt

75

My Valentine

How nice, Louise, that

Rain or shine

You've always been

My Valentine

No jealousy

No "yours" and "mine"

Except that you're

My Valentine

And if, My Dear,

You so incline.

You'll always be

My Valentine

BT 2-14-06

Add Valentine’s Day 2014

OK, so I’m a little late

Giving you a poem on this date

But calm yourself and never fear

I love you still...so THERE, my Dear!

76

Love Forever {SONG)

Love forever; fail us never; this is Jesus' way...

Send up a prayer; Jesus is there..

Forever and a day.

As a Child does wrong, then asks us to forgive

And we still love, as long as we shall live

You may grieve the Lord, your whole life through

But there's nothing you can do

To keep Him from loving you.

You can laugh at God; let sin take its toll

You can keep the Lord from saving your soul

You can harden your heart; you can say you're through

But there's nothing you can do

To keep Him from loving you.

37BT Bill Thornton 10 3 82

77

Love

Love is like the wafting air

Like our years that flutter by

Tho unseen, it's always there

Fragile as a butterfly

37BT Bill Thornton

February 14, 1989

78

Lullaby for Fathers

At first his prayers were not so deep

Just "Now I lay me down to sleep."

All care was left to Mom and Dad

And life was not so bad.

And as the years began to creep

He'd pray the Lord, his soul to keep.

The days were good and he was glad,

And life was not so bad...

More years, and for his child he'd pray

"If I should die before I wake,

Care, Lord, as you cared for me..."

At last...responsibility!

Now prayers are real, with more at stake

He prays the Lord our soul to take

He's learned the way of God above...

The fullness of a Father's love.

37BT Bill Thornton 11 19 80

79

Lynda

You must have been rankled

To mess up your ankle

We're so glad that you're back on your feet...

Tho you're going on crutches

We need you as much as

A town needs a cop on his beat.

So please take it easy

Don't step on spots greasy

We're wanting you back, S.A.P.

We're crazy as loons

And you hope you're back soon

From The Crew, and from Lou, and BT

{Lynda Lewis auto accident, broken ankle

January 1992)

80

Memories of Mom and Dad

Memories ago, you decided one day

You'd both exchange vows, and here's what you'd say...

For better, for worse, til death do you part,

You looked at each other, with love in your heart.

Minutes turned to hours, and hours to days

And three babies came, that soon changed your ways.

Now you've got three thankful girls who are here to stay

You gave us a part of your life, we can never repay.

No matter how many days go by in our life,

We'll always remember Daddy and his loving wife.

Years went by and we're babies no more...

But lessons you taught us, still hang on our door.

For your love will always linger, And to our babies we will quote

The lessons that you taught us And the poem that you wrote.

To always wash our little hands, And help Mom pick up clothes

And not talk back to Daddy And to never pick our nose!

Melody {Thornton)

March 8, 1980 Anniversary

81

Y'all Come

{To Rosemary)

Just because I never visit

Don't consider me a heel

It's your fault, you Tennessean,

You're so far out in left field.

There's a song that claims that absence

Makes the heart grow fonder still.

It that's true, you really must be

Wild about your brother, Bill.

Bill Thornton July 19, 1992

82

Never

I've had troubles that disheartened

Almost to just giving in...

I've had lots of disappointments

Even from the best of men...

I've had friends who over-promised

And equipment over-priced...

Eaten food that wasn't tasty,

Served by folks who weren't too nice...

I've been tempted to consider

Changing homes, or changing brands...

Even thought of quitting business,

Moving to a distant land...

But one thing I've not considered;

Never has occurred to me,

And that's turning back on Jesus

And my Christianity.

For of all of my possessions,

And whatever the amounts,

Having Jesus Christ to lean on,

Is the only thing that counts.

Bill Thornton

83

No Gifts

I have no gifts to give this year

No presents do I bring

But just as God so loved the world

I offer Christ our King

In this world are things to bear

Some sorrow and some pain

I'd like to change it so you'd have

Sunshine, instead of rain

If I could give you each a gift

To last the whole year through

I'd give you each the gift of Love

And happiness for you

"Today I'll live for you, Dear Lord"

That's not so hard to say...

I pray that you will do the same

On this, our Christmas Day

I pray each day you'll take His love

With Him each day you'll share

And that one day our family

Will be together There.

37BT Bill Thornton November 18, 1991

Inspired by words by Laura

84

The Nursery

You've all seen the church's nursery,

It's a place where milk is served...

All the visitors are babied,

And they're easily unnerved...

They expect to be the favored,

Wanting first pick of the toys,

But my friends, this may surprise you...

Some aren't little girls and boys.

Some are grown up, milk-fed Christians,

Meaty sermons go unheard,

Meat is something they can't handle..

They're still unskilled in The Word.

These are easily offended...

Wear their feelings on their sleeve,

As with newborn babes, deep sermons

Are too profound to believe.

Are you living in "The Nursery?"

Still unwilling to move on?

Better start your growing now, before...

Your final chance is gone.

37BT B. D. Thornton

85

Only Two?

"And only two?" the person asked...

"Just two came up this time?"

"With all our work, and all these nights,

Just two will start the climb?"

How can we hope to fight and win

This battle we've begun...

How can we get eternal life

With such a race to run.

Ah, but it's not ours to judge,

How much is gained, or missed.

For maybe one who had been weak

Was strengthened, for all this.

We've read of shouts from angels' lips

When just one makes his choice.

And since our meeting first began,

Two times, Heaven has rejoiced!

Bill Thornton 6 30 59

{Written after overhearing a conversation on the

final night of a revival with Evangelist

Zane Kirkland at the Freewill Baptist Church in

Walnut Ridge, Rev. Glen Campbell, pastor)

86

Three Day Party

Satan watched with great delight

Saw Him climb Golgotha too...

He'd fought Christ with all his might

Now he thought his job was through.

He watched Christ die on the cross

And he watched them take Him down;

Followed to the borrowed tomb

And he planned to claim His crown.

For three days, sin was defended

For three days the devil starred

Then his celebration ended...

Won the battle...lost the war.

For while satan held his party

Christ was saving souls in hell

Preached three days while satan partied

Then He rose, the world to tell

He's alive, and satan's party

Is an empty memory;

Lies...all lies...was satan's promise

Christ still lives for you and me

BT Bill Thornton

{Conquest also written by this title)

87

The Pastor

"P" is for the prayers he offers for us

"A" is for sincere ability

"S" is for the standard that he teaches

"T" is for his true humility...

"O" is for the One he offers to us

"R"...the Rock that stands, eternally

Put them all together; they spell "Pastor"

The man God called to shepherd you and me.

37BT Bill Thornton

88

Pat's Birthdays

+++

How can they

Forget my day

Is it too much to ask

But let The One

God's Only Son

Be first

And I be last

+++

{Sent to Pat Dec 26, 1998

concerning her Dec 29th birthdays)

"look at it this way: It's an honor

to take a backseat to Him...

Be happy about WHY we forget!"

89

Patchwork Quilt {SONG)

THE PATTERNS OF LIFE ARE LIKE A PATCHWORK QUILT

EACH OF US ARE DIFFERENT...IT'S HOW WE ARE BUILT

MOM MANNING SEWED STRIPES AND CHECKS AND BRIGHT PLAIDS TO MAKE THE WINTERS WARM FOR HER AND YOUR DAD {CHORUS)

YES WE ARE LIKE THOSE QUILTS...SOME QUIET, SOME LOUD

SOME BOLD AND SOME SHY...AND SOME WHO LIKE A CROWD

BUT PUT US TOGETHER AND WE WILL BE

SOME QUIET; SOME HAPPY; ONE BIG FAM-I-LY

{1)

TAKE A BUNCH OF FOLKS FROM OLD ST. LOUIE

AND A FEW FROM BUTLER MISSOURI

STIR IN A LITTLE OKLAHOMA

SEEMS LIKE ALL OF US ARE ROAMERS

{2)

ILLINOIS AND MISSISSIPPI

AND A FEW FROM TENNESSEE

ROLL 'EM TOGETHER AND LOOK WHAT YOU'VE GOT A PATCHWORK QUILTING BEE {3)

MOM AND POP WERE IN THEIR TEENS

WHEN THEY BEGAN TO SPIN THEIR DREAMS

NOW THEY'RE GONE, BUT THEY LIVE ON

THROUGH FOLKS LIKE YOU AND ME

{4)

SO THANK YOU ALL FOR COMING...

TO MAKE THIS QUILT COMPLETE

WE'VE ALL BEEN BUILT AS A PIECE OF THE QUILT

AND FINER FOLKS YOU'LL NEVER MEET

37 BILL THORNTON MARCH 5, 1999

MANNING REUNION

90

The Patient

They've come to visit me...

Me! Pale face, weak voice and all...

Feeling vulnerable and small,

And yet they cared to call.

They've come to visit me.

They've sent a flower to me...

They understand my disarray...

They realize how long my day.

And they, not knowing what to say,

Have sent a flower to me!

They've said a prayer for me...

They cared enough to stop and kneel...

They're interested in how I feel.

Surely this friendship is real.

They've said a prayer for me.

37BT Bill Thornton

91

Pouring Back

{For Pat)

Two sons...then a little daughter...

Now our Mom could "Frill and curl."

Mother-servant every moment,

As Pat grew to grown-up girl...

Came the time for a reversal,

Now the child returns the love...

Watchful, tenderly protecting...

Pouring back a Mother's Love.

37BT Bill Thornton

July 19, 1992

{Pat Caring for Mom)

92

The Saddest Hour

In contemplating history,

What would the saddest hour be?

Not when Eve sinned and Adam fell...

Not when the men of Sodom dwelled... The saddest hour...that moment gray,

That comes to some, at last, one day

The saddest walk that man can trod

Comes when he dies, not knowing God.

BT Bill Thornton

93

Santa The Mystery

There's something odd about Santa Clause

I've never seen a chimney quite his size

And picturing all those cookies and milk

I simply have to...well. improvise

And when I think of Mom kissing him

Hunting for him in a beard so hairy

Or deer that fly without flapping some wings

Why, it just gets...imaginary

But there's one thing I do understand

And Mom's the one who said I should

Santa's the mirror of Every Man

And he stands for everything that's good

So let those questions disappear

The elves, his icy home and all

Take him for what dreams say he is

And have a Merry Christmas ball

Bill Thornton

94

School Reunion

The old playground is quiet now,

In fact, the building's gone...

But this is not a time to mourn,

For mem'ries linger on.

We talk about our good old days,

And all the fun that's gone...

But if we now could make a choice,

We'd let time march right on.

For no one would let time stand still,

We'd lose our chance to grow...

Our children couldn't have their lives

And life would lose its glow.

Reunions now are not as large;

Some old time friends are gone.

But we can treasure thoughts of them; Of happy times we've known.

So this is not a time to grieve;

This is a time for song,

For we enjoy remembering,

As time keeps marching on.

37BT Bill Thornton 10 7 70

{Written for Reynard-Bevar-Pleasant Gap-Pleasant Ridge

Bates County School Reunion October 7, 1970.

Requested by Mrs. Ira Wilson)

95

Self Portrait Through the years he'd been waiting; as a boy, then as a man Wondering if The Call was coming... wondering where he'd take his stand. When he finally felt the calling, it came loud and clear and strong And he heard the voice of Jesus, saying "Preach my word in song."

And God's mercy flowed like honey... starting at his fingertips And the words of God were given, like a blessing to his lips. And the Holy Spirit helped him... bringing down the words of love And he preached the word by singing... sermons given from above.

God is never in a hurry... one day as a thousand years. He will tell us when He's ready, casting out our earthly fears. While we watch and wait and worry, patiently He follows through; At the proper time He'll tell us... what He's wanting us to do.

Yes, God's mercy flows like honey, starting at the fingertips, And the words of God are given, like a blessing to your lips. And the Holy Spirit helps you, bringing down the words of love And you'll do the Master's bidding, with words given from above. (Continued next page)

96

Then came what we call “The Sixties” Writing for a magazine “Conquest” for a TV station Opened up a brand new scene. Al and Vidy Metsker did it And when age took them away He just kept on serving Jesus Writing “on line,” day by day. This then, was his come-late Calling God had planned from Billy’s birth Website Missionary” he called it And he writes for all he’s worth. 138 countries reached, and counting; This was what he waited fore More for God now, in retirement, And he’s hoping to do more. (Continued on page 169) (Age 87 in February 2016, thankful for the website www.billthorntonconquests.com, originally Bill Thornton 7 21 84 Al and Vidy Metsker built the station. They had founded “Youth For Christ” in the 1940’s. Al died and the son took over, but later sold the station, and of course the magazine was gone.

http://www.billthorntonconquests.com/

97

She Didn't Think I Heard {Melody)

To my Mama on her birthday...I still don't know her age,

But I remember all the things she used to say...

She taught me not to cross my eyes

And that it was wrong to tell her lies...

Too much candy would make me sick,

Stick your tongue to the frig and it would stick...

Don't read in the dark or you'll go blind...

Don't call your sisters stupid...to them always be kind.

Brush your teeth or they'll fall out,

And when you're mad, you shouldn't pout...

Don't pick your nose; hang up your clothes,

Look before you cross the street, and always be nice and neat.

You'll break your head if you jump on the bed...

Talk with your mouth full and you'll be dead.

She thought I wasn't listening, but I stored it all away...

Not knowing I was saving it for a boy I'd have some day!

Melody Mother's Day 1988

98

Special Guest

If a letter came from Jesus

With a message just for you

"Dearest One, this is to say that

I'll be visiting with you...

If a letter came to tell you

That this Christmas you'd be blessed

With a visit from your Jesus,

Would you thrill and answer "Yes?"

There will be a special person

As our table guest this year

We'll say Grace and act so nice

and say "we're glad to have

you here”

We'll be on our best behavior

And we all will hover near

Christmas will be most unusual...

With our Special Guest this year.

Christmas this year will be different,

Now that Jesus plays a part

Now the Star, and Angels singing,

Mean so much more to my heart

This year, send an invitation...

Let the Lord know you are His

If you don't want Christ at Christmas...

You don't know what Christmas is.

37BT Bill Thornton 9 27 90

Suggested by Laura

99

The Star And The Five Dreams

{Matthew, Chapters one and two)

In the Old Testament, Jesus' birth was foretold Micah 5:2

And the world thought a king would be coming, in gold

But the prophecies seemed to dispute their own words

Here's the story the people of Israel heard...

Joseph...Joseph...don't be afraid Matt. 1:20

This dream is my sign that your Mary obeyed

The wife you have chosen is blessed among men

The baby she carries will save us from sin.

And there were three wise men, led from afar Matt. 2:1-11

Who found Jesus under the Bethlehem Star

The gifts that were offered where chosen with care

Revealing a story exceedingly rare.

The first was of gold, prophesying a king Matt. 11:11

The frankincense promised a priesthood to bring

The myrrh spoke of sorrow; the Lord's final breath

For myrrh represented the day of his death.

King Herod had schemed that he'd trick the three men Matt. 2:7-9

But a dream warned that they should not see him again Matt. 2:12

The wise men obeyed and to Herod's dismay

Went back to their lands by a different way. Matt. 2:12

Gaspar of Greece took the news to his land

Malchoir of India told the East of God's plan

Egypt's Balthasar gave Africa word

Through these three wise men, Gentile nations first heard.

{continued next page)

100

{continued from preceding page)

And then yet again had the books prophesied

That Jesus would rule...that he'd take a bride

From Judah a governor, whom our God would choose Micah 5:2

To rule His own people, and they would refuse.

And in yet another dream, God's voice was heard

Saying "Take Him to Egypt til I send you word" Matt. 2:13-15

So that which was spoken by prophets was true

"My Son...out of Egypt land...I will call you."

Then sorrow was great and much weeping was heard Matt. 2:17-18

As the prophet had promised, all Rama was stirred Jeremiah 31:15

And King Herod's scheme made a forecast come true

That innocent blood would be offered for you.

Then by dream were they called out of Egypt again Matt. 2:19-21

By prophecy free now of King Herod's plan

But during the journey a fifth dream was seen Matt 2:22-24

That our Lord would be known by the name "Nazarene."

One star...one Savior of men, lowly priced

Two kings, bad and good...they were Herod and Christ

Three gifts...for His priesthood, the cross and a crown

And prophecies four...and five dreams are found.

Of The Lord Jesus Christ, both Messiah and man

The King of all Kings ever since time began

The Groom of the Church that awaits with concern

The faithful...the few who await His return.

Bill Thornton 1975

101

The Star {Song)

I made it...I made it...they've come to see me…

At last I'm the one that they're paying to see...

It's the top...it's the magical answer to all,

So why am I sad...want to quit...chuck it all...

A new town each week, since I'm one of the stars,

I'm acquainted with Joe at each one of the bars,

The crowd's always different, yet always the same,

Hungry to hear me...and they envy my fame...

But the jewel I cherished, I find has its flaws,

Cause I can't fill my room...with applause.

My world is a stage in a fancy hotel,

My home is my room...it's my own private hell,

The crowd is my family and it has its flaws,

Cause I traded my life...for applause.

No time on my schedule for friends and small talk,

From backstage to mike is my moonlight walk,

My marriage to fame...I find has its flaws,

Cause I can't...honeymoon...with applause.

No I can't...honeymoon...with applause.

37BT Bill Thornton 1 22 77

{Written after seeing Frankie Laine

in a Kansas City concert. As A DJ,

I decided afterward to try to call him,

and was connected to his room instantly

It indicated how lonesome, even stars

can be) Bill Thornton

102

Still Waters {Song)

Still waters, the Lord has promised me

He promised, a time that's trouble-free

I ask The Lord when will it be...

He answers, "Have faith to wait and see."

Green pastures, the Lord has promised me.

A pleasant place that's always sorrow-free.

No sighing for setting of the sun;

No crying...for wrongs that have been done.

I hear Him in the thunder and I know he's everywhere...

I see Him in the rainbow…

the heavens do declare;

I call on Him to help me, when trouble closes in...

I know he...can answer...and with Him I will win.

My shepherd, my Lord promised to be...

My prayer is, that no one else lead me.

When shadows close in, He's always near...

I need Him, and know that He is here.

37BT Bill Thornton

103

Success

There's a place for stained glass windows,

Beauty in a hand-carved door,

But we must remember...Jesus Didn't bring those to the poor.

No, He came to give them courage,

Brought them hope for a tomorrow,

Gave them good men like my Dad,

who could understand their sorrow.

Times were hard when Dad was school age,

Many scraped for education,

But Dad learned the Book that counted...

Genesis to Revelation.

You can take pride in diplomas,

Masters...Doctors...PHD's...

But Dad's way was special, for he Learned the Bible on his knees.

Dad has been highly successful,

Earned it, as God's willing tool.

Made it, in the way that matters...

Dad has lived the Golden Rule.

Dad, I wish I could be with you,

Like back when I was a lad.

Since I can't, my prayers are with you

And I'm PROUD that you're My Dad.

Bill Thornton Dad's Birthday 1979

104

The Sunday School Lesson

{Here It Is Saturday)

I have a little trouble, gettin' set for Sunday School

I know the Bible stories, and I know the Golden Rule,

But now when it comes to study...readin' in that quarterly...

I can't seem to find the time to...time can sure run short on me.

I meant to read it Sunday, soon as I got home from church...

But the ballgame came on early, so the TV was my perch...

And my napping when it ended, surely wasn't really sinning...

I was mentally exhausted, 'cause the game went extra innings.

It isn't that I'm lazy, or that I'm not to be trusted;

Really I'm an all-round person...I can prove I'm well adjusted,

But my Monday's always busy {that's the day