Boyhood Memory Poem by Jeff Stoddart

The white blanket of winter had gone, giving way to spring
My childs eye filled with wonder, and my heart began to sing
As I walked the lanes of my boyhood, full of gentleness and fun
My innocence like a beacon, shining brightly in the sun.

The pleasures I knew then cost little, quite unlike today
Everything we do, dictated by the hand outstretched for pay
Walking in the valleys of my youth, soft rain upon my face
Listening to the far church bells, a newborn lamb, a soft embrace.

Tadpoles in the twinkling brook, reading by the fire
Helping with a suckling calf, midnight in the cold stone byre.
Days of magic, peace, and love full of hope and joy
Memories of yesteryear, requiem for a golden boy.

That boy was stolen long ago, replaced now by the man
Fading memories remain since that magic time began
Yet when spring returns, as she will, the joy is lived again
And troubles melt like winter snow, sweet tears dull the pain.

My heart beats strong and sings again, when spring it has begun
And the lost joy of that long dead boy stays burning.....in the sun!