Would that it were

Would that it were always like this:
child-like hand safe at harbour in Father’s grip,
viewing tomorrow’s distant clouds -
daubs in an ocean of blue.
A single wavelet gentle of touch
ambling over the shingled hem
of the sea’s rippling garment.

Grips change.
In forgetful moments, I won’t need anchorage
and drift in the seductive undulations of life.
Then squalling, darker, clouds of reality
obscure the horizon,
reassuring touch of sand
is beyond the reach of frightened toes.
Then it’s not the clasp of child
but Father’s firm grasp
that brings the treasure to safe haven.

Doorway to the cathedral organ

The gate is shut,

stairs within barely visible,

destination hidden by stony shield.

I know where they lead,

from their lofted intention

music trembles the air

with resonant touch.

No “abandon hope” nomenclature here,

 this is access to the heart

from ear’s pathway

to spirit’s joy.

My gated sensitivity

also shields

barring entry.

As with latticed metal door

there is sight of what’s within

for Him to whom

all hearts are open.

And if I release the bolt

we will make music.

Grave disposition.

Century old eloquence
whispers now
where words shouted.
Elegiac relections
here bruised

and broken.
Names overwritten
in harsh winter wash
and inventive gales.
Deeds forgotten,
sins removed
by forgiving corrosion.
But I still have your name
engraved on My palm,
time cannot erase
eternity.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Charles Oliver Styles 1913-2008

In farmer’s fallow fields
from tent and caravan
new seeds were sown.
On seaside beach
from pulpit dune
words and action,
grains of life
mix cry of gull
and childhood shriek of fun.
Then from the planting,
and shifting sands,
from tall tales told
and flanograph panoramas,
heaven alone knows
the magnitude,
and will reap
its crop.
Another hillside, centuries past,
another voice with words of love
and life in story disguise
fed and watered
a crop
that nurtured
the voice in farmer’s field. 

I'm proud to be able to say that Oliver was my Uncle. 

He was a children's evangelist, innovative and influential.