John

for John Tait, who lived only a few hours, and for his parents Janet and Tom

Hold me hold me
I have survived
the longest journey.
As I arrived
the stars were born.
Dark dark space –
and then the act
of light took place.
I breathed, the world
shone out, I cried
I AM!
The universe replied:
Princeling child,
your kingdom runs
down time’s quick line.
It happens once
and there are riches
in abundance.
I too heard
this wordless sentence
as I felt
the gift of air,
hard and soft,
here and there.
I have worn
the living crown.
Hold me hold me
lay me down.
Such a long way
did I come
mother, father
to be home.