Reflections from Fr. Bill
Mary Moody, cousin to Fr. Bill, and committee member shares a personal poem he wrote to her
Throughout my life, there have been many friends
Some have passed on, I hope to see them again
Some have been by my side throughout the years,
To raise my hope and allay my fears
I’ve felt their love, make no mistake
In my own way, tried to reciprocate
My brothers and sisters, first above all
A moment without them, I simply can’t recall
Without reservation, their love’s been true
My nieces and nephews have affected me too.
This ode as it is, is about another
A kissing cousin of mine, like no other.
Mary’s her name, nee Connelly you see
For a long time now, a treasured part of me.
Call me to task, with a word or a glance.
Irish bloodlines, I think, it’s not mentioned by chance
A family wedding, we met, a long time ago.
A collision of sorts, that story I’ll forgo.
This Philistine she took, to all school plays.
She would clap and cheer, my eyes were glazed.
We’ve seen the “Geeter” perform, been to drive-in with beer,
Irish nights together, and Vegas one year.
Along this journey, her presence to me
Has enriched my life, it’s her endearing quality.
Through joys and sorrows, times she’s never missed
With her smile and hug, and always a kiss.
Throughout our lives, we’ve had highs and lows
Laughed with our joys and consoled each other’s woes
These words I write, on paper so thin
Do not convey, the fondness within
This letter is secret, of course you know
If you must share it, there’s always Joe
When my days are ended, I lay in hallowed ground
You should be assured, your presence was profound.