Grace's New Life 1941 Poem by Terry Collett

I walked on
my new legs
up the aisle,
Guy beside me
to give me away.

Joan and Iris behind
holding the dress.

Philip was at the top
of the church
waiting for me.

It seemed strange
walking the aisle,
unable to see the flowers
with my blind eyes,
but smelling them
as I walked.

Guy stood me
next to Philip;
I sensed him beside me.

The priest began speaking
and I listened
to his every word.

I couldn't believe
I was getting married.

I could hear others
in the church in the pews
shuffling or whispering.

Last year
I never thought life
would be worth living again
after losing my sight and legs
in the bombing raid.

I had wished
I could have died,
but now I have legs again,
and Philip,
and a new maid Iris.

I stood there
staring forward
as if I could see everything.

We exchanged vows
and we kissed.

We were husband and wife
and I have new legs
and a new life.