Phil...
When you saw him standing there,
you knew he felt he was quite alone.
And then you realised that you were him
and at that point the first seed was sown,
a seed that grew to envelop so many,
powered by the passion to inspire your peers.
And you endowed all this with your sensitivity and wisdom
taking many a gamble despite your fears.
The formula you have bequeathed has grown and endured.
It wont surprise you when I say that my group lives on
Not just in my mind – we meet with regularity,
Until when I know not, until the last breath is drawn!
So I thank you Phil with all my heart
for allowing me to contribute to this precious process.
It has enriched my thoughts and memories in so many ways,
giving an indebtedness to you I am glad to profess.
And Phil’s reply follows…
Tony….
Although it sometimes seems the case
That one is standing there alone,
That all around is empty space,
History itself has always shown:
There are friends.
Throughout the life of a venture dear,
In times of stress and deep concern,
Strong principles do persevere.
From whence does this strength return?
From our friends!
The formula you mention is valuable indeed,
But Tony, as always, your wisdom and care
Gave greater value to those in need
And marked you forever as the greatest Chair,
By your friends.
To have someone wise, sensible and true
Has confirmed for me also that goals aren’t all;
That the journey with friends will always do
More for the soul and enthuse and enthral.
Thank you friend!
For Phil Meddings on the occasion of his 80th birthday