In preparation for Easter this year, I have spent some time immersing myself in some of the events of Maundy Thursday, and here is my first attempt at a sonnet.  Easter’s joy is all the more poignant having entered the darkness proceeding it.

 

Maundy Thursday

How can my master be my servant too?

Stooping, untying sandals caked with grime,

In tender strength his hands my feet renew,

His garment white is soiled in drying mine,

With laughter, celebrations fill the air,

Punctuated by sombre lifted cup,

Imbued new meaning to salvation share,

Away stole stealthy satan covered up,

He breaks, dividing bread the mystery,

Off’ring redemption’s sacrifice for all,

Into the darkness, hymns from slavery,

Up mount we climb in silence of nightfall,

Shall I my master all in this deny?

The rest may go, but surely Lord, not I!

© Jonathan Bryan

 

 

 

 

 

 

What a day I had yesterday!  Travelling up to London on the train, we made our way to the impressive Strand offices of Pearson Clinical, which has an awesome panoramic view of London’s Thames landmarks. My hopes were also set high as I had been shortlisted for the Young Person of the Year at the Shine a Light Awards 2018.  Receiving the award from 2 previous winners, Gregor Gilmour and Jonathan Middleditch, was a great honour.  To have my work with my Teach Us Too campaign recognised by people in the field of speech and language therapy and education, feels like an endorsement of all I am trying to achieve for children yoked with labels that suffocate their learning.  

During the ceremony, a film was shared which was recorded at my school a few weeks ago.  As you will see below I have been blessed with an amazing bunch of friends.