REGRETS

A tramp came into the village pub
He was known from every townland and club
As he walked through the door
They all gazed in surprise
At his old tattered coat
And despair in his eyes
He once was a man who had life’s greatest chance
As he sat there alone no prospect to advance
As he looked around all the drinks in their hand
Overcome by temptation he gave in to demand
As he finished his drink he then made a speech
The words flowed from his lips in a beautiful speech
He said don’t be fooled by this demon of drink
For I like yourselves stood there on the brink
I once was a man with my future intact
But look at me now I’m a total wreck
My wife now has left me and my home is now gone
Twas a home where love flourished
When a day’s work was done
No bed to lie down on no respite or care
I just trod the roads be it raining or fair
If I could retrace my life once again
My life I’d enchance with a sweeter refrain
Don’t criticize me as I leave you behind
In case just like me yourself you might find
You’re only as good as the seeds that you sow
There’s one thing for certain you’ll reap what you sow.

Nan Anderson