“Gray Hair is a crown of Splendor” Proverbs 16:31
“This isn’t just gray, this is grace.”
Doris Spencer (My Mama)
I wrote this piece decades ago, when maybe one or two gray strands were peeping through, now gray hair is taking up full residence. This piece hits different now. Even as I write it today, I feel the difference. This words mean so much more, I see the splendor. Scroll down to the bottom of this blog to listen to the audio version.
Crown of Splendor (The Remix)
When I look at my mother and her Sister-Friends
Exchanging their wisdom
Treasuring their memories
Laughing so hard
They end up shedding tears
Entrusting their secrets
Sharing their fears
Becoming wiser more than older
Experiencing new things
Becoming bolder
I adore their Splendor
This too, is what Solomon must have done
For he writes in Proverbs 16:31
“Gray hair is a crown of splendor
It is attained by a righteous life”
As I look at the silver that surrounds my mother’s face,
She proudly wears her crown of splendor
She says, “It’s not just gray, it’s grace”
It’s proof that I’ve lived and am still living
Making the most of the life I’ve been given
That’s why we encourage daughters when
Their faith is shaken
We know the rewards of the road
Less taken
We want our daughters to attain their own crown of splendor
We dedicate our lives to be your teacher and defender
Attaining this crown doesn’t come by chance or a whim
It’s a result of a life dedicated to Christ – trusting in Him
That’s why we’re example not in word
But in deed
You represent fertile soil into which
We plant the seed of wisdom you need
Look at your image in the mirror
And I hope you see me
As I look at my reflection
I see my crown of splendor has already headed my direction
As I stroke my hair filled with gray
Or rather grace
I see my mother and her sister-friend’s face
Exchanging their wisdom
Treasuring their memories
Laughing so hard
They end up shedding tears
Entrusting their secrets
Sharing their fears
Becoming wiser more than older
Experiencing new things
Becoming bolder
They adore their Splendor
I adore their Splendor
Royalty surrounds me.
Wearing My Crown,
Sheila P. Spencer
This poem is one of my two contributions to Chicken Soup for the African American Woman’s Soul. This anthology is a treasure and rich collection of encouragement and wisdom.