If Tags could talk

If tags could talk what would they say
Of the scenes they saw from day to day?
Pinned on your chest so true and bold
Through rain and heat and snow and cold.
They saw the smiles the anger, the tears
And heard the prayers and signs and jeers.
The doors that opened the doors that slammed
The dogs that big the gears that jammed.
What would they say if tags could talk,
For they were there through the joy and shock.
Would they say and tell aloud
That their missionary had done them proud?
Are they honored to be on your chest
Knowing for sure you're doing your best?
Or do they hide their face in shame
Because they have to bear your name?
did you act the way you should
Just the way the Savior Would?
If your tag was called to testify
you know with God it could not lie.
It would tell the truth both good and bad
Tell the happy and the sad.
You're the reason for its shame or fame
Because you know it bears your name.

Written about missionary name tags by Sister Ferrin,
Maryland Baltimore Mission, 1998