Looking up (From Penarth Times)

Looking up

IF I REMEMBER correctly "Look Up and Aim High" was the motto of Victoria School, Cornerswell Road, Penarth, when I was a pupil there, and what a happy time I had, with splendid teachers and a marvellous guidance for life and lots of fun.

We all walked to school in all weathers, were a mixed bunch, some very poor, others well-blessed. We heard of domestic tragedies and joys, we shared our hopes and fears, endeavouring to do our best. It was an excellent motto to live by.

Of course we read most of the famous poets, but the poem I remember and loved was Abou Ben Adam.

Abou Ben Adam may his tribe increase Awoke one night from a deep dream of peace And saw within the moonlight of his room An angel writing in a book of gold Exceeding peace had made Ben Adam bold And to the vision writing in the book He said "What writest thou?" The angel raised his head with a look Made of all sweet accord answered "The names of those Who love the Lord". "And is mine one?" asked Abou. "Nay not so" replied the angel, Abou spoke more slow, but cheerily still and said, "Then write me as one who loves his fellow man". The angel wrote and vanished and next appeared In a great awakening light and showed the names Of those whom God had blessed And lo, Ben Adam's name, led all the rest!

Audrey Adsett Countess Place Penarth