MacDonell United Methodist Children's Services, Inc. 8326 Main St.  •  Houma, La. 70363  •  (985) 868-8362
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A Place for Me By Paula A. Carpenter

It’s seven a.m., I walk out my door knowing this will be the day...
My sister reveals her story and our teacher gasps in total dismay.
We are told all will be fine...
All too soon night falls and it is five past nine.
We walk through a door and all is at rest...
To find sleep wear is our counselor’s quest.
We receive little bags filled with toothpaste, a toothbrush, soap, and shampoo...
Labeled with a number to denote whose is for who.
On a cool crisp pillow, I lay my head for the night...
I cannot sleep - I try with all my might.
So, I turn to watch my sister - she is fast asleep...
She is safe. She is not stirring - no, not a peep.
I smile and pray...
“Thank You Lord for this very day.
Thank You for such a place...
There is no danger of harm - no, not a trace.”
Morning is here and  I am stirred by the sweet smell of cinnamon toast...
I am then greeted with caring smiles - this I will remember most.
Our daily chores equip us with responsibility...
And study hall in McGowan prevents doomed stupidity.
For many children their days here quickly turn into years...
Their hopes and dreams of placement is overshadowed by endless tears.
My days here will be short...
I soon will be leaving is my social worker’s  latest report.
Should I smile or cry?
Oh, God - Am I ready for yet another goodbye?
My new family is great...
We drive away and pass through the big white gate.
My counselors wave a final good bye and tears wet their face...
I say farewell and again thank God for such a wonderful place.

Paula Carpenter, a school teacher and an accomplished writer, shares this poem about her experience when she resided at MacDonell.

MacDonell United Methodist Children's Services
Serving Children Since 1919