Little Harbours

The little harbours of the island lie

Snugly at rest, below the headlands green,

Each a retreat from the stormy winds that whip

The waves to fury ‘neath a lowering sky,

A place of quiet in the prevailing din,

A place of refuge for beleagured ship.

What though the tempest howl, the waters high

Beyond the wall?  Within, a calm serene

Pervades, a peace that like a seaman’s grip,

Hand clasping hand, holds tight, nor questions why.

Sanctuary is witheld not: all ships come

That are in peril, what their flag or crew.

Souls that feel need and danger have a home

In the great Heart of One who suffering knew !

 

Mona’s Herald     23.10.62