Shining Light......

Long ago the dream did begin,
as explorers searched a world of new.
Population expansion was on the rise,
Kings and Queens selected the chosen few.

Renowned, respected, explorers and navigators,
readied their ships to sail the treacherous seas.
Some were lost, some shipwrecked by storms,
others on their knees asking God please.

Amerigo Vespucci, navigator and cartographer,
sailed with Columbus, writing of the new land.
Martin Waldseemuller, a master mapmaker,
gave credit and exposed the riches most grand.

Italian female version honoring the cartographer,
gave the name "America" in sincere admiration.
An explosion of countries all in contention,
sacrificed many for the sake of this new nation.

Dutch, Frenchmen, Spaniards all held dreams,
of this far away land, soon to lay claim.
Stories of a place filled with mystery and gold,
each one in hope of glorious riches and fame.

Great Britain last, sent by Queen Elizabeth,
Sir Francis Drake to lay claim to the glory.
All with a dream, disregarding inhabitants,
turning the page to this never ending story.

Roanoke was settled first in 1584, then 1587,
Manteo and Wanchese welcomed all.
Later in the year Virginia Dare was born,
then settlers to Jamestown came to call.

History is specifically his recited story,
by those who lay claim to the admiration.
This very young country has come a long way,
still needs divine intervention, and dedication.

This land has her growing pains and scars,
she has her low points, and at times ill.
Won and lost many battles, but she remains,
the bright shining light upon the hill.

     Wishing All A Great Labor Day!

Written by:
Karen Palumbo
Photography by:
Robert Palumbo
9/1/2010 © All rights reserved