A THANK YOU POEM TO MARK DEACON JOHN'S RETIREMENT

 

DEAR JOHN

 

"Fear not."

As one angelic proclamation

Declared in the mystic annals

Of our beginnings.

This missive comes not from above,

Nor has its roots

In the dreaded declaration

Of a depressingly ensuing diatribe.

In Life, paths cross and recross,

As we travel along

Seeking the experiences

Which will define

Our purpose and role in Life.

Occasionally, you come across someone

Who surprises you.

We, like many other members

Of our close - knit flock,

First met at school gates,

Parents ' Meetings, Celebrations, Delightful School Concerts,

In a much smaller, more intimate establishment.

You, Maureen and your young family,

Bravely battled through traumatic events,

With love, faith and hope

Always your mainstay.

Such a plethora of experience

Colours your life

Of service, discipline and expertise,

In varied regions

Of our ever-changing world.

New horizons held attraction,

More doors to be opened,

More skills to be learned,

Enabling others to live their lives more fully.

But then, comes a time

When you are satisfied

That you have reached your goal.

We'll miss you.

You evolved into our own patriarchal figure,

In mien, touchingly simple eloquence -

And iconic appearance!

So, Dear John,

(I told you not to worry)

Thank you for

Your service, devotion, love and integrity,

Over the past thirty-three years.

May you and your loved ones

Proudly wear the Cloak

Of Health, Happiness and Peace,

Over the years to come.

 

Eileen Murray © September 2020