THE JOURNEY

From the mists of time long past
a man and horse come riding fast.
I guess to some a funny sight:
proud white steed and ancient knight.

We’ve heard the tales from days of yore
where men fought battles by the score.
For strength and courage they were known
and seeds of honour there were sown.

He turns his head and looks at me,
his gentle maiden by the sea;
bound by oath to defend his king,
around his neck my wedding ring.

As gazes lock in mute appeal,
the deepest pain now do I feel.
For only once did we unite
and celebrate our wedding night.

But love we did upon our bed,
the deepest fires of passion fed;
then once again he rode away
to fight beside his King that day.

A fervent prayer to Him above:
“please keep safe my one true love”.
Alas my pleas were all in vain
for in this battle he was slain.

I never knew he cried my name,
as he went down in burning flame;
he vowed once more we’d love again
though many lives would pass in vain.

Now here at last to stake his claim,
to bare his soul and purge his shame.
He offers me a last embrace
Tears are streaming down his face.

I lay my head upon his chest,
together we can finally rest.
A soul in turmoil finds its peace
and loneliness at last will cease.

(c) Sandra Anne Beal
26th April, 2006