Christina Douglas Hamilton

Glasgow, UK

I was born on December 22nd 1907, in Argyllshire. I attended the local primary school, then went to Lochgilphead Higher Grade School and finally to Oban High School. I qualified as a physiotherapist and as a student I met my future husband. Shortly after qualifying, I married Robert Hamilton. We had three lovely children, William, Malcolm and my daughter Marion. After my family grew up I went back to physiotherapy and worked in Falkirk Royal Infirmary for ten years after my husband Robert died in 1963. I took great satisfaction tending the disabled patients and my maxim has always been - "laughter is the best therapy."

Life's Way

How fortunate we do not know what future has in store,
Of happiness and heartache that lies unseen before,
As we along this hidden path our earthly journey wend,
How often does the darkest stretch conceal the brightest bend.
And if from all the sunny days we store a little light,
Perhaps twill make the duller ones seem more bright.
Giving as we go along, we'll have a lighter load,
Helping those less fortunate along their weary road
For happiness through giving is the truest form of bliss.
As those who give with generous heart know what the others miss.
And those whom sorrows sometimes touched can comfort in distress.
Giving the needed solace with a loving tenderness,
Thus pattern of mysterious life weave all along the way
Oh! give us strength to brighten it with good hearts every day.

Woodland Charm

Today I reached the woodland and wandered down the glade
I saw the trees adorned in every hue and shade
I saw the dainty squirrel in his little russet coat
I saw the wily water rat beyond his watery moat
I saw the little Robin a singing to his love
I saw the sunlight filter through the trees above
And I forgot the wickedness, the worry and the strife
And all the little irksome things that trammel up our life
And I felt all the happier as I wandered on my way
A-soothed by nature's sweet delights on a golden autumn day.