Penny candy

Walking by an old abandoned building
That once housed a penny candy store,
I envisioned all the wide-eyed children
As they gazed at the display of candy galore.

I was saddened by the closure,
And it took me back to the days of yore
When I, too, was spending my pennies
At the neighborhood's penny candy store.
As a youngster, I stared in disbelief
At all the candy unsurpassed
And often rubbed my fingers unconsciously on
The counter top of highly polished glass.

At the proprietor's helpful suggestion
I would only remain silent and gape.
The variety of candy caused me to be uncertain
As to what penny candy I would take.
What a thrill to have a penny in my hand?
It is a feeling that I still cherish today.
I was able to go to the penny candy store
To select and buy candy my own way.

Though I may still be indecisive at times
While viewing the niceties by the score,
The thoughts of time tried candy still remain
From the old, neighborhood candy store.

Joseph T. Renaldi