The Special Point of View

By George F. Horne

May 4, 1993

It's start-up time on Number 2.
I take my seat and pray,
"Lord help us meet each challenge
That confronts us on this day."

I'm a special bus attendant,
The other member of our crew.
Our success we can attribute
To our special point of view.

My driver, Gus.perhaps the best.
A gentle man, but firm.
The kids all like his curly hair
And tease about his "perm."

I've never heard him raise his voice
Or threaten any child.
He appears to know just what they need.
Gus always wears a smile.

If today is like the ones before,
We'll have a happy ride.
At first, it may just start off rough,
But time is on our side.

It seems to motion of the bus
Helps calm the upset child-
Even those who, when they come aboard,
Are little short of wild.

For instance, Nan: she'll kick and cry
When Mother brings her out;
But I'll just smile and take her hand
And turn her mood about.

Michelle will chew her fingers,
Rocking quietly to and fro,
While staring out the window.
What she thinks, I'll never know.

Tyronne will wheel himself outside
And pull up to the lift.
His smile and disposition
Must be God's offsetting gift!

Shaleeta cannot hear a word.
Her wit is quick and dry.
I marvel at her signing skills.
My, how her words can fly!

My good pal Tim is such a kick!
He's jolly; never shy.
I've never heard him question
Lack of sight in either eye.

A fiery, dark-eyed beauty
Who loves to tease and play,
Tanya had another seizure
On the bus just yesterday.

And then there's Brad, in braces
Shuffling slowly toward the bus.
No help he needs to make the climb.
Just patience from me and Gus.

What special grace these kids received!
Called "special", yes, they are.
But just as every other child,
They twinkle like a star.

Our students all are such a joy.
Each has a different place
In mine and in the heart of Gus.
They know! It's in each face.

@ 2001 Copyright George F. Horne. All rights reserved. Reprinted with permission.