Irish Blessing

Bless all those in this house,
And all who come and go.
Bless our friends and family,
And those we've yet to know.
May their cares be ever light,
Their journey straight and clear.
And so remain within our heart,
Whether far or near.

For Helen

Speak to me
Softly
Lay your words as morning dew
Upon my heart
And do not leave so long as they remain

For Margaret

Now comes the darkness
A welcome respite, and
Eternal peace

Rain

Rain falling softly
Tenderly touching leaves, and
Dancing in puddles

Saving Grace

Why did you leave?

     I cannot say.

We loved you so.

     From day to day.

We never knew.

     It hides sometimes.

A fatal flaw?

     A word unkind.

You did not say.

     A silent scream.

You did not care.

     Too much it seems.

What could we do?

     No more, no less.

A final word?

     A soft caress.

What then remains?

     A quiet place.

Forgiveness then?

     A saving grace.

Count to Ten

One little face
One little red nose

Two little feet
Two big toes

Three peas in a pod
Each in its place

Four tiny horses
In a tiny horse race

Five fingers and toes I have at both ends
I wiggle them all with my family and friends

Six silly sailors
In a silly sail boat

Seven sad cowboys
In yellow raincoats

Eight is enough
Not a single one more

Nine buttoned-up maidens
On a buttoned-down tour

Ten tiny captains sailed in circles and then
Counting their blessings, started over again