Finding Hope
by Dr Audrey Coatesworth
I was searching for Hope who sat
Usually, in a chair in the corner of my mind
I realised she was not there
Her loss was overwhelming
Her empty chair felt such a blow
Then, I was standing on an island
Where?
I cannot know
I walked on the white sands
The sea around was black
To my amazement I saw single footsteps on a track
I was curious,
So I followed along a mud and stony way
Up a hillside I scrambled
It was a hot and dusty day
As I reached the summit
Sitting cross-legged on the ground
I recognised my dear friend, Hope
She was just staring all around
'At last you have arrived'
She said, through happy tears
'This has been my true home for so very many years
I kept alive, despite all
But so weary, I cannot tell
In my mind I sat with you, while
You walked the path through hell'
'Thank you', I said, 'I saw you
Your presence gave me strength
To travel on through so much pain
And to reach the final length
But you are obviously exhausted
I know that feeling - well
And as I look at the black sea
Was it worth it?
Can you tell? '
'The evil men and women
Who cause all pain and fear
Think they have won the battle
But, they know not that I am here
Fear not, I can now tell you
This island, desolate and remote
Holds the key to heaven
On stormy sea can simply float
Evil takes no notice
Of what appears to have no worth
Me and you together one day
Will celebrate your birth
Know I was not lost but hidden
Go back now and be content
I shall be taken home
But in touch, so don't lament'
I returned
Hope's words resounded in my ears
'We shall all, one day, be free'
Gone now are any fears
As Time continues I walk on
I shall face every day
Through my remaining life
Whatever - come what may
CopyrightACoatesworth2010
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