Watching and Waiting

I’m tired of watching and waiting

For the return of the knight of my heart.

Seems I must go to seek for him

Ere the bloom of my youth depart.

I must go ‘fore my eyes lose their brightness

And my hair is fleaked with gray.

I must go to seek for my lover

Though he be weary miles away.

I might have been wedded and happy

If pride had not filled each thought.

But he – bless his name – knew I loved him

Knew my childlike heart must be taught-

The love God meant for woman.

Not the selfish basely pride

That wrecks the life of a maiden

When it once has her heart bound and tied.

He knew someday I’d want him

Knew I’d need his big strong love.

Would to God I’d been warned of my folly

By an angel from above!

Though I have grown old in waiting

My heart feels young and gay

When I think of the time he’ll return to me

Be that time near - - I pray.

Written by Ida May Schaffer

Spring of 1921

Age of 15