At a recent meeting, Ralph Pannett read a prose poem that summed up how he felt about the rich tapestry of community activity that has filled Crossways over the last three decades. With his permission, we decided to re-print it here:
The walls surrounding us at Crossways have a rich patina of the sounds, sights, smells and memories that are enshrined here. These I have loved, at Crossways: Children's voices, squeals of delight - and tears calling for comfort Appetizing odours from warm food - the clatter of cutlery on dishes Voices raised in sacred song and prayer - the foot-tapping for jazz musicians Happy chatter, neighbourhood parties - challenge and debate at political meetings
Of gathering and re-unitings
Distressed tones of intimate revealings - sympathetic listening
Light and shade on warm, homely woodwork - candlelit intimacies; the aroma of incense
Of solemn vows and undertakings in new partnerships
Young musicians venturing to sympathetic ears - polished performance of symphonic soloists
Of vibrant dance moves - the calm deliberation of yoga
Community notices exhorting and extolling - the colour splashes of children's art
Endless committee meetings debating policy - measured readings of poetry and literature
Fresh pine scent from Christmas Tree
Naming ceremonies and baptisms - funeral rites for the dear departed
These I have loved - at Crossways.
- Ralph Pannett
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