Up North, the year-long ceasefire held its powder still … And the wonderful summer weather broke all known records, In our beautiful but very much troubled island home. Both factors gave our peoples spirits a so-badly needed lift And blessings spread themselves all over our dear land. And now, on a late October morning, the sun, So reluctant to leave, revisits us again – Having seen the wonderful effects of the happiness Earlier bestowed on our so-welcoming people. I see from my window the freshly greened grass And note how the sunshine highlights the gold In the variegated hedge and the red and orange Colours of the still-flowering dahlias and marigolds. The only exception is where the very tall old prickly holly tree Intersects the lawn by casting its brooding shadow to the other side, Long enough to straddle the far high hedge top. Whilst we all dream of Peace up north – in my mind, Somehow, I relate that long brooding shadow to the threat That remains until The Peace has been secured. And may God grant that it so will be!
28.10.1995