A journey - perspectives
As we’re only a breath away from Christmas now, I thought I’d share a poem sequence in which I imagine what Joseph, Mary, and the donkey might have been thinking. I’ve been told that some of my poems are best read in a Yorkshire accent. which is still the accent I think in, even if it’s rather subdued in actual speech these days. This might apply here - I’ll leave you to judge
Joseph I’m standing by her Its who I am If you’re looking for reliable then I’m your man I’m walking by her She gets to ride Snug on the donkey Me by her side I know I’m pampering but still it’s tough a long road when pregnant and she’s suffered enough Folk say I’m stupid They say Mary’s wild They all doubt her story now she’s with child But I’m standing by her ‘cause that’s who I am If you’re looking for credulous Then I’m your man Mary The man thinks riding a donkey is comfortable. In my condition! Baby bouncing on bladder A backache bonus with every step along the way to Bethlehem and the dream I had! If that’s what it was. Messages from God. Angels. Hearing voices. I’ll end up locked up. Or revered. Who knows? Meanwhile there’s just this rocky road, a donkey, and my old man plodding beside me, steady as we go, ready to look for lodgings, ready for a birth, and trusting a conception that challenges his self worth The donkey Typical humans, all self-obsessed, while I carry the burden. The woman’s a pest, moaning about backache, shifting her weight. Try being a donkey loaded with freight! Are these two special? I’ll grant you they may be but I’m carrying the woman and we’re both carrying the baby The man can be grumpy. Like he’s guarding some treasure. Fatherhood’s daunting and he’s feeling the pressure. And is he the father? The story’s not clear but he’s filling the function now her time’s drawing near. I’m ready for a stable, a drink and some straw. They’re needing a rest too but looking for more. My view on the whole thing? For what it’s worth I think they’ll get their miracle. The miracle of birth.