Today’s poem
We had an eventful day out, though it wasn’t intended that way. We decided to go for a walk on the moor as it looked like a reasonable day. We parked the car in Shillito Woods, watching the birds to and fro And took a few minutes discussing the route to decide which direction to go. We chose the footpath down to the moor, soon slipping and sliding in mud, But were forced to make a diversion, avoiding the slush if we could. It seemed like the only solution, and it looked like a fairly good track, So we went with the simple intention of trying to make our way back. This was a serious error, though we didn’t know that at the time, For Ray, who is into his 90s, and myself not that far behind. We had taken Charlie Boy with us; Charlie is my little dog.
Possibly not his idea of a walk as he battled his way through the bog. We found ourselves trapped in the wetland with both of us starting to tire, Unable to go any further, hopelessly stuck in the mire. Each step we took risked a stumble, progress was painfully slow, With no sign of any improvement indicating which way we should go. A group of two or three walkers up on the original trail Had seen that we were in trouble and realised all was not well. I waved my arms as a signal; they came down the hill at a run, The cavalry to the rescue, our heroes, Brian and his son! Once Ray was taken to safety our rescuers came back for me. I was so thankful they’d seen us.
Without them, who knows where we’d be? By now we were completely exhausted, the police arrived at the scene And we had to supply a few details as to where and to why we had been. They treated us both very kindly, consideration itself, But they thought they should call for the ambulance as they were concerned for my health. At our age we ought to know better and stick to our walks in the parks, Or if venturing into the Peak District, at least we should stay on the paths! To all those who helped I pay tribute, though I may never know who you are. You have made a lasting impression and I thank you with all of my heart. It’s that basic human kindness that you so rarely see — The human kindness on that day you gave to Ray and me.
Pat Paterson, Little eaton, Derbys.