Beecha Less

It has been three generations since my family came from Rome.

They were fleeing persecution; seeking out a safer home.

Times were tough for my relations, starting over, working hard.

Meaning well, but never trusted, so they still kept up their guard.

Sayings came from my grandfather thankful for this foreign shore.

One that I will not forget was “Beecha lessan praya more”.

Through the years they gained affluence. Blessings came as their reward.

Then they thought they’d reached Nirvana when they went and bought a Ford.

All the while they kept their values, even while they watched their backs.

They weren’t fazed by criticisms living by the railroad tracks.

Thankfulness was Grandpa’s byword,
 though his shift was four to four.

He told Grandma, when she faltered, “Beecha lessan praya more”.

This has now become my motto, though my life is not so tough. There are many other countries

where survival can be rough.

What, you ask, is my ambition? What is it that sums the score?

I still hear my grandpa speaking, “Beecha lessan praya more”.

Roland Burbank – Lyrics

John Andrew Schreiner – Music, recording, mixing, keyboards, accordion

Cathy Schreiner – Vocals

Frank Lenz – Drums

Garry Grant – Song art