Friday, October 31, 2008

In honour of Uncle Tom

Another wonderful poetry invitation from Christine at Abbey of the Arts who posted this picture, taken during a trip to trace maternal ancestors. to inspire us to celebrate our ancestors, either as a group, or dedicated to a particular person (human or animal in nature).

The photograph is from Christine's invitation,

My great-uncle Thomas remained in Inverness when his parents and 12 siblings emigrated to New Zealand. Within a few years he was killed at Gallipoli. My grandparents named their first son after him, and that little one died in infancy. On a visit to Inverness I was stopped in my tracks and strangely moved when I saw his name on a wall plaque commemorating the men of Inverness, so many of them young men, who died in the first world war. I don't have a photograph.

I never met you
and I was moved to tears
when I saw your name

Lal remembered
her older brother always
and we heard stories

Thomas Gillanders
You were loved
You are remembered
You have family throughout this world
Rest in Peace

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

beautiful tribute mavis, I love the image of his name evoking this deep pool of emotion and ancestral memory. blessings to you!

Ruth Hull Chatlien said...

This is very touching. And it's a beautiful photo.

Mavis said...

The photo was from Christine Ruth - I've amended the blog to acknowledge that. Thanks for the blessing Christine,

Ken Eck said...

Hi Emjaydee,
Thanks for stopping by my blog and I am glad you liked my poem.
I was moved by your story of Uncle Thomas. I am fond of Scotland and have been to Inverness many times. I am pleased that your encounter helped you 'remember' as that is a very important thing to do.
God Bless

Jan said...

I love this. Poem and photo are beautiful, esp. together.

Welcome! Sign my guest map if you please