Adelaide Rhead

Durban, South Africa

I was born in Ireland in 1932, but have lived in South Africa, most of my life. I was a radiographer (x-ray technician). I travelled extensively and also worked in London for several years. In the last few years of my radiography life, verses started popping into my head and here I am on the Internet today. I retired from radiography at the age of 60 and then a new chapter of my life began. I still lead a very busy, interesting life. I believe that as I give so I receive, therefore always try to give the highest and the best.

What Have We Done To The Earth?

What have we done to the earth?
What have we done to the sea?
We are killing the planet of our birth,
Oh, can't you see, can't you see?

What have we done to the air?
The acid rain falling on the land,
There's pollution, pollution everywhere,
Oh, why can't you understand?

The animals and all that fly,
The forests and all upon the land
The fish and all that live in the sea,
Are we all doomed to die through man?

But when we learn to respect and love all,
Then we will know our true worth,
And the dream of peace that we all have,
Will come to our planet Earth.

Discrimination

Why do you think you're better
If your culture is not the same?
Yes, maybe you seem different
But deep inside all are the same.

Why do they think they're better?
If one is black and one is white,
If one is man and one is woman.
They are the same, that is their right.

If one is straight and one is gay,
They are no different, just the same
If one is Christian and one is Jew,
All come from God, we are the same.

So, get to know all people,
And show them what you think and do,
You'll see how others live their lives.
When you like them, then they'll like you.

If one learns to understand
And respect all points of view,
Then peace on Earth must surely come
It is up to you. And you. And you....

Water

Water still, water deep, how many secrets do you keep?
We look upon your surface calm, and feel the peace that is a balm.
Now the gentle stream runs faster, racing swiftly swiftly ---
Over boundless cataracts. Water -- share your energy with me.
As a big wide river flowing slowly to the sea,
It fills me with its strength. Love and peace now cover me.
Sunshine on the water fills everything with gold.
And silver from the moonbeams. Feel the joy you now behold.
Water in its many forms soothes the jangled nerves,
Isn't this a pleasure that everyone deserves?

All poems Copyright © 1996 Adelaide Rhead. All rights reserved.