When ordination day came round
Our isolated college found
An invasion force of northern coaches
Lancashire Yorkshire now approaches
Five forgotten years a desert
Now this day on full alert
I chain smoked couldn’t grasp it
Here we go your life’s in aspic
Mum had asked me what I wanted
A present like commemorated
Said a bible that ‘ll do me
Nothing else could then enthuse me
Hidden away from all that matters
Really felt my life in tatters
Shropshire really did for me
Numbed my spirit can’t you see
In the bible prayer card found
Souvenir its still around
Quotes Pascal it did surprise me
Read it still to energise me
Thinking, so the Frenchman tells me
Is the cause of greatness, sells me
Prayer I know is recommended
Obedience too is well defended
But thinking – well now there’s the danger
Sets you free from friend or stranger
In the Church they say much better
Pray pay obey the letter
Thinking – now we can’t control you
If it were cricket we can’t bowl you
In a group we keep together
Everyone on leash and tether
But here a word to set you free
Thinking is our sanctuary
Safe from other’s regulation
Stand your ground hold your station
Brainwash is the accusation
Free your self from that temptation
Your mind your thoughts are holy ground
Never let another sound
Take from you what God has given
To rob a soul won’t be forgiven
Welcome those who guide and teach
Who help us reach what’s out of reach
Listen with a careful ear
Take your time and have no fear
The greatness of each human soul
Our dignity I am no fool
Let me think what I will do
Then I’ll happily meet with you
Brian Fahy
26 May 2021
My Mum gave me a prayer card on ordination day. It said, ‘Thinking is the cause of man’s greatness’, (Pascal). Surrounded by religion and religious institutions and regulations, I found this sentiment arresting and surprising. I have held on to it all my life.
BF.
Erris Poetry 