Begin Again . . .
I am amazed at times as to where I impose meaning. This picture is an example. Margot has grown it from seed over many many years and, wonder of wonders about 5 years ago, we had the first Bird of Paradise flower. The plant has grown well but see still have only one flower per year at Charistmas time. So when we arrive each December and it has just emerged from its wrapping I get a sense of joining it in its radiance and I have a feeling of joy because of it. Another year and we are still here.
I wrote the piece below at the time, sitting at a port café, reflecting on nothing in particular.
A New Year
Sitting at start of year welcoming
a not at all sure
where the trail of time will lead
Soothed by the boats in port
rocking gently wires pinging in harmony
inducing a slowing rhythm
in my how did this happen place
pleased to watch passers-by
amble to the sounds of the sea
A blue grey sky breezes along
signalling that it is de rigueur
to suspend panic and madness
Just for now
Peter Clarke
2nd Jan 2023
Echoes of the Old on the New Battlefields
Warrior chiefs of the GAA were early on the field to prepare:
Posts and cones positioned to mark territories
Very young novices came later by parents’ chariots
clad and shod for the ensuing battles
Firstly, paced for speed, resilience and flexibility,
then marked off into opposing teams
Each warrior chief led a young squad of hopefuls
in further exercises to bring them to fit levels
There followed a huddle, an exhortation rant,
responded with clamour of intent and enthusiasm
Skirmishes began, speed across the field, hunt for the ball,
to be delivered as the goal, or to be prevented at all costs
Warrior chiefs egged on, instructed, altered the field of play
the young ’uns complied with fighting spirit
For every fall and hurt spells were cast on the side line
till fitness returned and they were entered back into play
Scores mounted, roars enhanced, casualties grew,
novices flagged and regrouped across the fields
Between bouts came the talks of encouragement
Stay back, pass, pass, pass, keep the pace.
Old hands passing skill onto new palms with dedication,
a gift of generous wisdom gladly given
Peter Clarke
20th April 2024