After This

I just had to write these verses on the current situation. I hope it reaches you in some way, and that it might even, for some of you, be something of a comfort. These are sensitive times. Offered with love and respect.

After This

After this, when we are once more free
To leave our homes and sanctuaries,
When it’s once more safe to visit friends,
When we are free: when this all ends

I hope we remember in our hearts
Those who did not see this part
Those who fell to this invisible foe
Those who did not live to know

The peacefulness of a silent night
The sky filled with only birds in flight
How loud is their song, to a listening ear
And the rush of a river, running clear;

Who never saw how the human heart
Can move the spirit to do its part:
Singing from windows, doorstep applause
Staying at home, and so helping the cause;

And I hope, one day, when this is all past
We will have learned lessons that will truly last
Ways we can change, choices we can make
For both our own and our children’s sake

The days are still dark, though hope’s with us yet
There is still so much we must face, and yet
In my heart I believe, though so much is amiss
Once again we will smile; after this

S P Oldham