The Vigil - a photo on Flickriver

The Vigil

The vigil is yours to keep
Knights of old who take the vow
Gather before your Lord
But know that you will not be alone

Enter deep into the mystery
Of a lifetime of loyal service
Where my words are your bond
Steadfast unflinching and strong

My love will fuel your courage
My compassion temper your anger
This coming night you may falter
But your resolve will strengthen at my altar

Are you ready like those before you
To always walk in the light
Feel my presence within you
Steady like the beat of my heart

I wrote this poem when I was musing on the Knights Templar, and I wrote it at the same time as the poem called the Knights Templar, which you can find on my photo stream, or in the Grail Poems Album. I had thought that I would not be uploading any more work until after my Queen's State Funeral, on Monday. But something prompted me to change my mind, having seen the dedication of people filing past paying their respects at her lying in, and the guards, soldiers and others who have stood vigil.
Part of the initiation of a medieval knight was to undergo a night vigil, where he would contemplate the duties and responsibilities of knighthood. He had to do this standing or kneeling, and not fall asleep. The initiation to become a knight by this time had become an elaborate, mystical ceremony.
The dignity of the Queen's lying in has been a solemn occasion, and I would like to place this work up here in recognition of the respect that the public, the Royal Family and the organisers have shown, and also, for those who have been standing vigil for their Queen.
This image is the side chapel at St.Mary's in Eastbourne, Sussex, UK. The stained glass depicts the Archangel St.Michael, and he would certainly help a young knight find his courage.

To see more of my images and poems have a look at my website:
www.shelleyturnerpoetpix.com

Taken on: January 10, 2018

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Camera: Fujifilm FinePix HS20EXR, f/2.8, 1/30 sec, 4.2mm, ISO 500 (more info) (hide info)

Camera:	Fujifilm FinePix HS20EXR
Aperture:	f/2.8
Exposure Time:	0.033 sec (1/30)
Focal Length:	4.2mm
ISO:	500
Exposure Bias:	0 EV
Flash:	Off, Did not fire
Exposure Program:	Program AE
Exposure Mode:	Auto
Metering Mode:	Multi-segment
White Balance:	Auto
Color Space:	Uncalibrated
Software:	Digital Camera FinePix HS20EXR Ver1.03
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