(With love to our wonderful Queen, and warmest wishes on your Platinum Jubilee.)
I walked through a wood, one cold winter’s day,
Where one shining leaf seemed certain to stay –
And along my own street, a cheerful friend smiled…
“I have freedom at last – I’ve just retired !”
“I can do what I want the whole day through –
I can paint. I can dance.
I can talk to you !”
I walked around Windsor one April day,
Where one busy woman seemed here to stay…
Although she was weary, she always tried
To serve every moment – with patience and pride.
And there, like the leaf that gleamed from its tree –
Our Queen is a Hero,
To stay – or break
Free.
Clare Bevan
2022.
