Leisure Time

Beware, philosophical Patrick in the e-house.

A while ago I was chatting with my landlady (80 years old and still as sharp as a pin) and ended up lending her a compilation of my grandfathers letters that my Aunt had put together. After reading it she lent me a book called ‘Other Mens Flowers’. The book is a compilation of poetry from a field Marshall (A P Wavell) in the second world war. She thought it was a book my grandfather would have enjoyed – and indeed he had many copies of this book at home. Well worth a look if you get the chance. There are a few old favourites I’d not read in a long time – one from primary school (which I’ll put in later)

This one – Leisure, I came across a few weeks ago and it is slightly pertinent at the moment. You see, I am on a fixed term contract with the Ministry – which is due to expire in a months time. It’ll get extended (to the best of my knowledge)… but it was a time for reflection as I am thinking of moving to a permanent position (if one becomes available) and I am really tempted to move to a 4 day week!. Crazy? I don’t think so – I’ve got quite a few friends over here who do 4 days. I don’t particularly need the extra cash – no mortgage and no dependents! However.. a 3 day weekend every week… now that could be good. So we’ll see… we’ll see.

But enough ramblings – enjoy the poem…

W. H. Davies

Leisure

What is this life if, full of care,
We have no time to stand and stare?

No time to stand beneath the boughs
And stare as long as sheep and cows.

No time to see, when woods we pass,
Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass.

No time to see, in broad daylight,
Streams full of stars, like skies at night.

No time to turn at Beauty’s glance,
And watch her feet, how they can dance.

No time to wait till her mouth can
Enrich that smile her eyes began.

A poor life this if, full of care,
We have no time to stand and stare.