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The roots are buried deeply
symbolising our past
anchoring strongly
the faith of today.
They are twisted by hunger
and shaped by despair
yet each generation is richer
because of their pain.
After years of denial
on the bare mass rock
their faith kept hidden
when persecution was rife.
Still grew the tree stronger
its roots searching on
seeking for moisture
in the words of Our Lord.
The trunk channels goodness
to feed the bare wood.
Never lying empty
but changed with rebirth.
On a bare barren hill
Our calvary made
stripped of its clothing
lying naked and still.
All through the cold winter
awaiting the day
when full of new splendour
green shoots will appear.
The wells run deep
nourishing the tree
Bringing it life
through years of unrest.
When Athenry lay crippled
limping in pain
the well surged up
and bathed its sores
The face of Our Lady
appeared in the mist
giving courage to those
who kneel at her feet.
Thus sank the roots deeper
in faith and in prayer
till the wounds disappeared
and the tree grew again.
Thus, leading to us the newest of buds
tentatively opening, unsure of our task.
Doubt not your great talent
or will to succeed
for in the last days of Autumn
We will be renewed.
– –
Written by Collette Morrissey
Published here 14 Nov 2022 and originally published 1996
– –
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