The Path Of Life And Beyond.... Poem by jane horner

When we are born
We slip down from the womb
So soft and unknowing
Safe in hands, all hearts a-glowing

On starting out we pad along
To face the world at large
We do not know, nor cannot meet
The bridges to cross, the path that we may forge

Later, striding out to seek
Experience, life, …. Ourselves
We may fall down and lie so hurt
Yet rise again (to make the journey)

Upward, onward, bring the force
The energy of life, and make
The best of steps, a merry dance
A steady road to take

Upward, onward, all you can
Summon strength of mind and spirit
Show the youngsters how it’s done – (or not)
How not to weaken and falter or fall

Burst out with life, ignite your world
Make and mould as you will
For you and you alone will know
What’s done is done ……. Until

When the pathway dims
The merry dance will slow to just a waltz
Look back and smile at all the tracks
The gains, the joys, the loss

SO, …… when it is time – you will know

Let spirits fly out and sprinkle down
On those you’ve loved below
And smile as wide as rainbows end
For they’ve still road to go

Reflect on times of good and sad
For all are precious now
Collect your thoughts and lay them down
Reap your dues and bow

As slowly lights are low and dim
Glow warmly as the setting sun
Release your life force back to earth
Give back and thanks be done

The goodness we put into life
Returns as favours glad
To die is merely handing back
The treasures that we’ve had


(13 July 2008)

This poem was written whilst on holiday in Greecs, after a phone call from a friend that her dear dog had died. I wrote an ode to the dog - Pugsley and his owner - my friend Rona. Then I started to write this - thinking that we all have to accept the process of life and what ever is beyond that..... lets look at it and accept it.