Margaret, My Friend

Margaret, My Friend
        By Bud Lemire in 1994

 It was 1990 when I first walked through the door
To do my Family Research, and find out much more
Remembering the time we met, you were very kind
Putting others first, leaving your own research behind

 Always keeping busy, checking over everything every day
Things stayed in order, nothing’s missing, everything’s okay
Never knowing my Grandmothers, they died before I came to be
But everyone will agree, you’re like a Grandmother to me

 I always feel comfortable with you around, you’re a special friend
For everyone and I, you’ve always had an ear to lend
The spirit that guides you, must be a very bright one
It shines like the stars, as well as the sun

 They touch the lives, of those who are near,
We look back to you, and a smile becomes clear
Like your spirit guides you, you guide us in turn
Making Family Researching, much easier to learn

 Showing us how to research, using your teaching influence today
As we learn so much, as we go about our lives and on our way
You do honor to your age, mixed with the wisdom that you’re sharing
A happy soul, down to earth, with a heart that’s full of caring
You’re wise and kind, especially at your age
I hope I’m like that, if I should reach that stage

This poem is to honor my good friend Margaret. She was the first director of the Latter Day Saints Family History Library for several years. I met her when I first started doing my Family Research. When we honored her and Pat in 2001, I sat and talked with her after a year’s absence from her. She said to me, “I was so proud of you. To see you come in to research and you were so shy, hardly spoke to anyone. Now you are all I hear about. Helping so many people all the time. You have transformed into a Master Genealogist. You’ve come a long way!”

   I last saw Margaret before I moved to Washington in 2002 and she asked me to send her a card to let her know I arrived safely.  I sat in her yard and chatted with her for a long time. I did send that card when I reached Washington, and it wasn't too long following I learned of her passing.