I heard a thrush

Sing on a bush

In a garden fair.

There was joy and beauty in its voice,

I’m glad that I was there.

I saw a child

So sweet and mild,

Blue eyes and golden hair.

First small steps on life’s rough road,

I’m glad that I was there.

By a wayside stile

I sat a while

In the morning air.

Such solitude I ne’er had known,

I’m glad that I was there.

I heard a cry

As I passed by,

Rabbit in a snare.

I eased its pain and set it free,

I’m glad that I was there.

Winter days, freezing white,

Days without respite,

Trees lifeless and bare,

But a small bird sang on a frozen bough,

I’m glad that I was there.

A summer breeze

Through the trees,

Bells for evening prayer,

Sweet voices rising to the skies,

I’m glad that I was there.

These moments divine,

Once were mine

On precious days and rare,

I thank the Lord for simple things,

I’m glad that I was there.

Joe Carroll.