U3A Writing: New Year
Barbara Tregonning is cheered by the arrival of a new year.
My heart sings.
Another year - new minted, shining
Like the harvest moon,
Huge, gleaming, orange,
Dazzling the nightscape.
What rich promise it brings!
I feel a child again,
Clutching my Saturday penny,
Entering that Mecca: the Lolly Shop.
Doorbell jangles.
The kindly, rosy dame
Leans amply over her stout counter top;
Greets me by name.
Tall glass jars in tiers behind her rise:
Bulls eyes and toffees, musk sticks, liquorice blocks,
Jewel coloured gums, sharp teasing acid drops.
Which shall it be?
I, mouth watering, anticipate.
The dame waits patiently.
And so my year waits too:
A twelve-month to be spent.
Will I choose the right jars -
Those well meant
For me, and those I love?
I'll wait and see,
For I can trust
Him, who takes care of me.
