Heart, O heart, once more it is the ancient joy of earth Breathes in thee and flings the wild wings sunward to the dome To the light where all the Children of the Fire had birth Though our hearts and footsteps wander far from home. 

 

 

 RECONCILIATION 

 I begin through the grass once again to be bound to the Lord; I can see, through a face that has faded, the face full of rest Of the Earth, of the Mother, my heart with her heart in accord, As I lie 'mid the cool green tresses that mantle her breast I begin with the grass once again to be bound to the Lord. 

 By the hand of a child I am led to the throne of the King For a touch that now fevers me not is forgotten and far, And his infinite sceptred hands that sway us can bring Me in dreams from the laugh of a child to the song of a star. On the laugh of a child I am borne to the joy of the King. 

 

 

 The sweetest song was ever sung May soothe you but a little while: The gayest music ever rung Shall yield you but a fleeting smile. 

 The well I digged you soon shall pass. You may but rest with me an hour: Yet drink, I offer you the glass, A moment of sustaining power, 

 And give to you, if it be gain, Whether in pleasure or annoy, To see one elemental pain, One light of everlasting joy. 

 

 

 NOTE 

 As the mythological references made in a few poems may partially obscure the meaning for those unacquainted with Celtic tradition, I have appended here a brief commentary on the names mentioned. 

 Angus, the Celtic Eros. In the bardic stories he is described as a tall, golden-haired youth playing on a harp and surrounded by singing birds. The kisses of these birds created love and also brought death. 

 Balor, the prince of the dark powers. His eye turned every living thing it rested on into stone. He was killed at the battle of Moytura by Lugh the Sun-god. 

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