The Journey Through Murphreesboro

 I drove to see my Mom and sis just the other day,
Kansas to S. Carolina is 17 hours, not exactly child's play.
A trip that long gives you plenty of time to think,
You must pay attention, things can change in a blink.
 
My wife and I drove past many a town and city,
Some exuded strength and wealth, others spoke of pity.
Some towns have common names, many states have one,
Washington, Lincoln, Jefferson just a few of which there are a ton.
 
But on the northern side of Kentucky is the city of Paducah,
My friend Dean Carpenter lives there--he's taller than Joe Palooka.
One state south, past the hills of Tennessee,
By the border lies Chattanooga, in this land of the free.
 
Between these two cities we stopped to spend the night suspectly,
In Murphreesboro, Tennessee (you must slow down to speak the name correctly).
The children of this town must be better spellers than most,
Just who was Mr. Murphrees anyway?  Of his name, did he boast?
 
He must have been a drunk Irishman, Murphy was his name,
He must have done something impressive to gain naming fame.
I hope you have a chance to drive along a highway soon,
And ask, "Who was here first?" and think of a new tune.
 
Have you travelled?--congratulations!--whether you drove or you flew,
Those who know the open road are numbered amongst the few.
However, if you are confined or more the homebody kind,
Through books and the media you can travel in your mind.
Yet, even if you are an explorer from the equator to the Pole,
My Redeemer, Jesus, can prepare travel for your soul.      

Dave Hale Ottawa, Ks 1/31/12      hale-agency.com