"The Landscape," by Fred M. Fariss I look over the landscape of genealogy To discover the footprints Of those who went before me-- My ancestors. I am awed by their feeble attempt To speak to me Through their paper trails, photographs and hearsay Of where and how they lived. When I meet with them At the threshold of history The discovery is so exciting To reconnect. With those whom I have never seen And some whom I never knew existed It is a family reunion On the plains of imagination. It is like meeting them This side of heaven Before the grand finale Of personal passage. The sad note is The wall That stands as a divider Between me and them, yet to be discovered. There is always hope Of another discovery Today-maybe--tomorrow On the landscape of genealogy.