Walking by an old abandoned building br That once housed a penny candy store, br I envisioned all the wide-eyed children br As they gazed at the display of candy galore. br br I was saddened by the closure, br And it took me back to the days of yore br When I, too, was spending my pennies br At the neighborhood's penny candy store. br br As a youngster, I stared in disbelief br At all the candy unsurpassed br And often rubbed my fingers unconsciously on br The counter top of highly polished glass. br br At the proprietor's helpful suggestion br I would only remain silent and gape. br The variety of candy caused me to be uncertain br As to what penny candy I would take. br br What a thrill to have a penny in my hand? br It is a feeling that I still cherish today. br I was able to go to the penny candy store br To select and buy candy my own way. br br Though I may still be indecisive at times br While viewing the niceties by the score, br The thoughts of time tried candy still remain br From the old, neighborhood candy store.br br Joseph T.