It's Poetry Month! -- Darryn John Murphy

[chamuda]

 So, this is a poem I only found tonight, but it seemed appropriate given that marriage equality passed today in New Zealand.  I'm feeling a bit nostalgic for the years that I lived there and just so chuffed about the vote.  So, here's a poem about Aotearoa, land of the Long White Cloud.

Aotearoa

Assemble as one nation, beneath the southern skies
Towards the distant stars there is hope in our eyes
One land of many people, but our spirit has survived
Even in the face of adversity united we are one

For there are hopes that we hold common
Beneath the light of the southern sun
And as we unite as one nation
May our pride, always sing

Benevolent are our values
For we know are hearts are true
Never have we lingered beneath this haven blue
Through the void of pure elation, to our nation we are true

And it is written in our efforts and the little things we’ve done
We are a land of many people but together we are one
What light could hold a candle to the essence of our flame?
As there is hope among our hearts, as we look with gentle eyes

And as we look towards the future we will hold our heads with pride
One land of many people but our spirit still remains
Aotearoa our New Zealand, beacon be our gentle light
For there is a sense among our presence, as look towards the night

By Darryn John Murphy