A Melty Fortress (Rolf Olson)

A snowy fortress stood on the edge of town
Across the street from Richard’s house around
Four blocks from home, in the drifted west
Where winds would give winter clothes a test.
We built the sturdy fort, my brother Paul
And many friends, with hidden keep, and all
The hardened walls we knew would never fail
Since they were iced by water from many a pail
We’d lugged across the street from Richard’s home.
One year, a section with an igloo dome
Came tumbling down. We had to dig out Paul
Who made it clear he felt just fine, I recall.
The games and adventures after school each day
Could last as long as the snow would stay.
In our imaginations we’d make it last
Until the final trumpet’s deafening blast.
Deep down we always knew that spring would come,
Our fort would melt, and winter fun would be done.
The walls would melt beneath the sunny assault,
And dripping snow would destroy every vault.
To find a fort that takes both sun and cold
The Bible holds the greatest plans to behold.
As you remember the wonder of childhood days,
Let faith in Christ be your fortress always.