Helen, I do not find it easy to put it into words
all the many impressions and the thoughts I have for you.
I rather think my feelings are very widely shared
by your friends and colleagues gathered here, a truly admiring crew.
Wherever you go, you produce sparkle and light;
whatever you do, you do with elan.
You enthuse those around you and you give them hope,
no wonder we are - every one of us - your fan.
Keep this grey world at bay a little longer;
let the passing years enhance your disposition.
Never stop exploring and discovering new ideas
and let the next half century start a fresh edition.
Life is like a river beginning with a spring;
tumbling through the early years, wayward and self-willed;
slower and far broader now, covering much more ground.
And when we reach our oceans, are all our hopes fulfilled?
Some may have doubts; not you Helen, no, I think not.
You will walk right through dark woods and climb every obstructing hill.
So what a very great joy it is, to share this celebration,
and what a wonderful partner you are, and have been, to Phil.