Dedicated to my father Sonny Cummins
Máire Morrissey-Cummins
We journeyed together
to Lourdes,
to the gentle rhythm of gatherings,
immersed in daily rituals
of mass, processions and healing.
Cradled in holy retreat,
we felt safe
away from our daily life.
The hypnotic sound of the rosary
echoing through the sanctuary
the steady hum of prayers
clink of beads
a mirage of people advancing
to a pulse of adoration.
Feet trailing behind wheels
row upon row, a rippling sea,
as candles burned into night,
melting minds and hearts.
The sick, the dying, the carers
united in personal pilgrimage.
Our daily visits to the grotto,
a shrine to Our Lady’s apparition.
Joined to a chain of people
reaching out to touch
the smooth worn rock,
shiny with caress.
Hope in so many hearts
Belief that by the stroke of their palm
They may feel the power of her touch.
I saw a miracle
in volunteers who carried you
to bathe in healing waters,
in carers, who demonstrated
love and compassion
to us and countless strangers.
It was my miracle to spend time with you,
father and daughter,
reuniting with our people from Waterford.
Timeless reminiscing over cups of tea,
your youth recalled
your face alight
as laughter tickled the air.
You did not get up and walk
but thousands walked with you.
Together there was a miracle
and we both found peace.
Maire Morrissey-Cummins © 17 May 2011
I am Irish, I was born in Tramore, Co. Waterford and presently live in Greystones, Co. Wicklow. For many years, I have lived in Europe, mainly in Holland. I still move between Ireland and our home in Trier, Germany due to my husband’s work. I am married 30 years and have two adult children who have flown the nest. After years of working in the Financial Sector, I retired early and am writing one year now. I really enjoy it. I paint watercolour and acrylic and I have found incredible joy in creativity. I am a published Haiku poet with the Irish Haiku Society and Haiku Ireland. I have had a number of standard poems published in local and foreign poetry anthologies, journals, e-zines and online forums.
Máire Morrissey-Cummins, Greystones, Co. Wicklow.
Category: Writers Corner
