I Will Shake Your Hand

Freeverse

The ring depicts a promise of fidelity.

I smile as you stand in your cloak.

That headgear is the symbol of the tongues of fire.

I smile as you receive that formal mitre,

while that pastoral staff is a shepherd's crook.

I smile as I know that staff will be used

to smite a great oaken door.

I smile as I hear that resonant bong;

I see that ring with its diocesan crest.

You say you will pledge yourself to those who gaze.

A ring on that hand,

that hand holds a staff,

the staff smites a door.

I smile as a non-believer,

though it is a smile of great affection.

(7 May 2024)

Reviews

[Chris Shaw]

This poem speaks to me of long established traditions, probably in the church. It is possible to appreciate such ceremonies without being a believer. Lovely to give a smile of affection regardless of beliefs. Nice one Andrew.

Chris

[Andrew John]

Thanks, Chris. I watched and heard this man give a talk. It was in Welsh and English, Welsh and English. He's the bishop of St David's here in Wales. Was talking for St David's day here in Carmarthen.

[Andrew John]

Oh, BTW, we did have a handshake even though I told him I was a non-believer. He did though assure me that God would welcome me. I smiled with some affection.

[Chris Shaw]

So inclusive Andrew, yes I would have smiled too:)

[Andrew John]

Since your text here, Chris, I sent the bishop (through the organisation - couldn't find a direct mail address for him) this poem, both as "print" and an oral one, and got a short card/letter from him. So he knows I'm an atheist, but we have a tiny relationship, and I keep his card/letter on my sideboard. For a few more weeks, anyway, then it will no doubt be filed.