Dad’s health failed at forty-four
Now no money coming in the door
Time for mum to go looking for a job
Full time mum of four no choice
Had to go and find her voice
Got to earn the money find a bob
Domestic service all she knew
So that was where she started too
But that would hardly even pay the rent
Confidence she lacked
Workplace experience
But her next move well that was heaven sent
Auxiliary nursing Astley way
She cycled there now every day
And soon she was delighted with her place
Earning money out the door
No longer restricted to home floor
It opened worlds for mum – it was a grace
Assistant matron in a home
Mum had skills to set the tone
Learned so much by giving elder care
Soon her reputation grew
Might take on another crew
Using native skills Glencullen air
Matron now for forty beds
Now a leader knew her meds
Mum at the pinnacle of career
The quiet girl of Erris stock
Now a formidable Wigan rock
Trainees sent to her from far and near
Dad reduced to second place
Found a job it’s not a race
Struggled then settled to the pace
Undiscovered talents found
When health was broken underground
And mum emerged to take her rightful place
Brian Fahy
26 May 2021
Erris Poetry 