John Roddam Spencer Stanhope, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
This is a recollection, in verse, of one of the most momentous periods in my life.
But first – a tribute from me to all the lovely GP Laydees:
And have you now, and will you have
full knowledge of your power,
the power that since you left the womb
you’ve nurtured every hour?We sometimes think, us foolish men,
the World turns at our will,
but we should learn, as you did soon
that you can bid it still.Nor passing years, nor changing form
these will not set you free,
the power that from your centre flows
is yours, eternally.
And a tribute to all ladies everywhere:
Woman
Perfect in your imperfections
Tilt of head and sure the stance
This the way and this the manner
Takes a first, a second glance.How you do it, if you knew it
Lost would be the natural way
That you hold you, oh so bold you
Imperfect be, imperfect stay.Natural lightness, step the right way
Curve of back and sweep of leg
Murmurous movements, soft and sinuous
Makes a man, a man to beg.To be near you, just to hold you
Roars the blood, breath catching thrill
Rushes onward, all runs faster
Soars the spirit.
Heart stops still.
© Gillygangle 2025
