A Joy to Celebrate

A line of trees greeted us—
tall, short, reaching skyward.
God’s creativity revealed itself in the cliffs,
patterns and textures carved by time.
I remembered—what a joy to celebrate.

We stopped for lunch.
Before us, the vast ocean; behind, towering cliffs;
above, clear blue skies.
Still the narrow road called us forward.

Streams trickled beside us—many, not few. Mountain tops glittered across the sky,
birds darting, rivers whispering.
We paused again, breathing in the beauty.

We prayed, acknowledging the grandeur—
lofty mountains, silent rivers,
the artistry of creation.
I remembered—what a joy to celebrate.

Soft black sand, driftwood, shiny pebbles,
rough rocks beneath tired feet.
The open beach stretched wide.
I remembered—what a joy to celebrate.

An old wooden house, tinned roof,
mouldy water tank, broken fishing line.
We took photos—many.
Cattle, sheep, birds swirling around the vehicle,
a tapestry of greens.
I remembered—what a joy to celebrate.

A table stood beneath the trees.
I heard God’s gentle voice:
‘Come and sit with me’.
I said, ‘Yes Lord, I just want to be with You’.

I remembered well—
it is a great joy to celebrate.

WORDS: Major Miriama Simanu

(Inspired by Officers Retreat held on 27 May.)