A Rite of Passage
The foremost column in the church is almost three foot wide
And sits upon a six inch-plinth, though not on every side.
There is just room for tiny feet to ease their way around
While all the time avoiding stepping on the ground!
The gap upon the one side is large enough to be
A very major challenge when you are not yet three!
I’ve watched through generations with twinkle in my eye
As each and every toddler goes creeping softly by,
Evading Mummy’s clutches or Dad’s restraining hand
They stagger towards the pillar as if at God’s command.
With wary eye for parents who might not let them do
The toddlers rite of passage before their task is through!
With hesitating footstep they clamber on the base
Then sidle round with arms outstretched for balance, just in
case.
They come upon the problem, as every child before
A gap too wide for bridging until they grow some more!
Every week, on Sunday, they’ll have another try,
Each time a little braver, as the weeks go by.
And then at last, in triumph, they cross the great divide
Achieve their rite of passage with a grin of pride.
And those of us who watch it cannot forbear to smile
Knowing other toddlers will try it in a while!
Thus it’s been for centuries and countless girls and boys
Have passed their rite of passage that ancient
pillar’s joys
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