THIS National Poetry Day, in homage to Her Majesty, budding poet, Rita Hardiman (aged 76), has authored a touching tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II.
The former music teacher, living at Sanctuary Care’s Ravenhurst Residential Care Home in Worcestershire, enjoys exercising her creativity in the home.
In the poignant new poem, she describes the Queen as “the jewel in our crown” and thanks Her Majesty for the service she provided throughout Rita’s lifetime, having ascended to the throne when Rita was just six years old.
Elizabeth Our Queen – by Rita Hardiman
From 70 years of devotion
And dedication to us all
You lie in tranquillity
Having completed your call.
Whether your life was long or short
You promised you’d always give
Service to us and the Commonwealth
Making a better place to live.
You loved the continual traditions
But welcomed progress too
And wanted to encourage the young
To excel in whatever they do.
You’ve been an amazing woman
Putting others before yourself
Little time for relaxation
Whatever the cost to your health.
With a great Sense of humour
You enjoyed plenty of fun,
The James Bond scene we’ll remember
But Paddington will run and run.
As a mother your family
Has bought you joy and sorrow
But with the younger ones
There’s fresh hope for tomorrow.
Most people have known no other
And what an example you’ve been
To exhibit the best in a monarch
By being our gracious queen.
We welcomed you into our house
Every year on Christmas Day
We had to hear your speech
Be encouraged by what you’d say.
Now it’s time to say “Farewell”
To someone we’ve all held dear
Doing your duty right to the end
So many will shed a tear.
You’ve been the jewel in our crown
Of great value in every way
May God welcome you home at last
“Well done, faithful servant” he’ll say
Paying tribute to Queen Elizabeth ll, Rita said: “Her Majesty was an exemplary leader for our country. She led with class and dignity, and her significance will long live in our hearts.
“I love to compose poems and so when the news about her passing came to light, I wanted to share how I was feeling. It felt like the perfect way to express what Her Majesty has meant to me since I was a small child.”
Shirley Evans, Deputy Manager at Ravenhurst Residential Care Home. said:
“We were all very touched by Rita’s poem dedicated to the Queen, she beautifully put into words what many of us have been feeling in this difficult time.
“The poem is just one of the many examples of Rita calling on her creativity. Alongside her passion for poetry, Rita has set up a choir in the care home, the Ravenhurst Angels, who often perform for fellow residents and staff and bring so much joy to our home.
“Supporting our residents in unleashing their creativity and pursuing their past passions is one way we work to enrich their lives and Rita certainly helps to inspire others to follow in her footsteps!”
