THE FIRST LINE

By

Earl W. Owens

Belpre (Ohio) Lodge #609

It's Lodge Night , and I'm getting ready

To assemble myself with the craft;

I've gone through my lecture so many times

Seems I know it now, both fore and aft.

I'm confident I guess. And I should be

For I've spoken many months in a mumble;

I know that the Brethren, will all be impressed

When you're good, It's hard to be humble.

So it's out to the car, and away I go

Then fear strikes me, clear to the bone;

I'd better go through this. Just one more time,

It's my last chance, while I'm still alone.

I've hardly noticed this trip at all

Now suddenly, I'm parking the car;

My hearts beating wildly. As I climb the stairs

I hear voices. Not near, but far.

Their lips are all moving, but I don't hear a word

I have to concentrate on my First Line;

Sure it'll be easier the next time around

But the trick is to do it the first time.

The Lodge is now open, and the work has begun

The first section's about to come to a close;

Gee, I should have gone to the men's room.

I feel faint, and I can't breathe through my nose.

They've just called my name, and I've taken my place

Boy! They don't give a feller much time;

And I've lost my book in a shirt with one pocket

And I can't remember my First Line.

I've learned a good lesson. It is I who's impressed

And I shall never forget this first time;

After all of the prompting, I now am convinced,

Know it all, as good as the First Line!!