What if…
What if… The media stopped spreading hate Then words not bombs would educate We learned, unlearned and then relearned And books were read instead of burned
What if… An open heart and open mind Could teach our children to be kind And help us to communicate Inspire us to negotiate
What if… We worked towards equality Eradicated poverty Fought prejudice, hostility Tried practising humility
What if… We knew when all was said and done That wars were fought but no-one won We ceased with the insanity United for humanity.
Carol Ellis (Mrs Yorkshire the Baking Bard), October 2023
Seasoned Wine
Sing sweet rain, sing, Let your voice carry to the world, Let the flowers taste your honeyed dew, And my heart to find your Autumn scent.
Sing sweet rain, sing, Let your cup run over to the thirsty fields, Let the Gum, Box and Pine shimmer in gladness, And the creeks and gullies fill again to the brim.
Sing sweet rain, sing, Let the dams rise in thankful praise, Let the children dance in the mud once more, And the rainbows gently sweep over the peaks.
Sing sweet rain, sing, Let your touch heal the parched land, Let the willow drink your lasting wine, And the sky to rest your burden spent.
Mathew Rush