On Prebends Bridge, Thinking of Sarah

“Half church of God, half castle ‘gainst
 the Scot”,
Sir Walter Scott enthused when from this bridge
he wondered at the majesty of Durham,
as so did I, and countless youthful eyes
before and since, bright futures beckoning.
She must have revelled in this lovely place,
her footsteps would no doubt have often paused
as from these ancient stones she’d gaze awhile
and thank the fates that held her eager hand.
For a few brief moments she would relish
as did I, and then forever cherish 
those golden years. But now a cruel wind
has torn her from this earthly world.
Bereft, we can but pray she’s looking down,
reflecting fondly on the joys she knew,
on memories beloved and pleasures shared,
and maybe, through the mists of time there shines
a vision of this special place, and happier times.

Copyright © | Year Posted 2021



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Date: 4/4/2021 5:33:00 PM
Durham really is a beautiful lovely place. The Cathedral especially
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Peter Rees
Date: 4/10/2021 10:39:00 AM
You’re quite right. An inspiring and memorable city.
Date: 3/28/2021 2:18:00 AM
Sarah sounds like a lovely woman, Peter. It must have been a terrible blow to lose her. Like you, I hope "through the mists of time there shines a vision of this special place." Perhaps it is a window to happier days. A very touching poem. Best wishes, Carolyn
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Peter Rees
Date: 3/28/2021 3:18:00 AM
Thank you Carolyn. Though I didn’t know Sarah personally her death has sent a shiver through the whole UK community. Your kind thoughts are appreciated.
Date: 3/26/2021 2:44:00 PM
this is beautiful with enough shadow to keep it interesting.
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Peter Rees
Date: 3/27/2021 2:39:00 AM
Thank you Richard for this thoughtful comment.
Date: 3/25/2021 5:46:00 AM
I enjoyed your creative write... loss, breathed as if in prayer, beautiful creation. God bless you always, Love, Gina
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Peter Rees
Date: 3/27/2021 2:38:00 AM
Thank you Gina for your kind thoughts.
Date: 3/25/2021 5:25:00 AM
such a heartbreaking piece which is compounded as my son also went to university in Durham. hugs Jan xx
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Peter Rees
Date: 3/27/2021 2:35:00 AM
Thank you Jan for your understanding.
Date: 3/25/2021 4:15:00 AM
I feel the pain of loosing a person close and cherished. I enjoyed reading this work and it makes me wonder about the bridge and Durham. Sara
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Peter Rees
Date: 3/27/2021 2:36:00 AM
Thank you Sara for this comment. Yes, much to think about.
Date: 3/13/2021 11:17:00 AM
This poetry touches me Peter. Beautifully written. Poignant. Real and Heartfelt words of loss, memories and reflections on a famous bridge over the River Wear. Love it. Cheers - Gary
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Gary Radice
Date: 3/14/2021 6:54:00 AM
Peter, I've just read your comment below regarding the tragic events that remain in the UK headlines. It's difficult to know what to add other than your poem is essential reading.
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Peter Rees
Date: 3/14/2021 5:58:00 AM
Thank you Gary. This one really was for real and certainly heartfelt.
Date: 3/13/2021 10:39:00 AM
Peter, my heart's imagination grieves with the sad beauty created by the poignant silky power of your gifted pen. A breathtaking and haunting piece that clings to the heart and soul. Warmest wishes, dear poet.. ~Susan
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Susan Ashley
Date: 3/13/2021 11:56:00 AM
Oh Peter.. So very sad and tragic and indeed personal. My condolences to you and her family.
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Peter Rees
Date: 3/13/2021 11:48:00 AM
Thank you so much for this lovely comment. My poem refers to a recent terrible crime in the UK. A young woman who went to the same college as me in Durham was kidnapped and murdered, so my poem is very personal.
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