Into This Life

Into this life

Having been asked by people here and there,

I answer them and then they stare.

Perhaps it wasn’t the answer they sought,

But there’s only one answer I give them, all else is for naught

They look amused, laugh lines riding up their face,

When I divulge to them my upbringing, my humble birthplace.

There have been many opinions by those who don’t know,

About West Virginians, if the truth be told.

We’re a proud member with an elite heritage,

Who laid the foundations, coal miners it is said.

We have a history that’s not shared by many,

And when asked for help, we’ve given our last penny.

There’s something more that lies covering our bones,

Than a simple covering of flesh that authors have made known.

There’s honor and courage and thanksgiving we proclaim,

Being aware of my heritage, I’ll never be the same.

So, let the world and its opinions say what they will,

About West Virginia coal miners, especially those from the hills.

They continue to influence, to write what was done,

Stories that touch lives and there’s still more to come.

No matter where we travel or the faces we see,

West Virginia’s people, Mountaineers Always free.

It’s memories that preserve us and speak louder than words,

Into this life, this place with memories unblurred,

My life’s story I retell the things that occurred.

By Dan R. Fowler

For Astrid