Hope Springs from the Gardens

Hope Springs from the Gardens

Embraced by the awesome splendor

Of towering flowering trees and lush green hills;

Set against a backdrop of clear Blue Mountain sky,

The spirit of Caribbean Optimism finds retreat

In the beautiful arms of Hope Gardens.

Giving thanks and praises,

Voices of hope are raised on high:

Learning and sharing, the future springs forward;

With fun and laughter, the unity of Optimism finds new energies

On the knowledge wings of a sound and glorious past.

Return then to your bases, oh Ambassadors we are,

And convert the big dreams to small acts that will last;

Lead with purpose, oh servants of goodwill,

In the name of our blessed children,

Make the hope of Optimism footprints of the faithful.

© Patrick Prendergast

This poem was inspired by the first quarter district meeting of Caribbean Optimists held at Hope Gardens in St Andrew, Jamaica on Sunday, October 5, 2014. 
Chaired by Governor Barbara Arrindell and with engaging workshops led by PIVP Shirley Jarrett and DST Jason Gillead, the meeting had a number of youth and adult Optimists from Zones 1 - 11 engaged in fun, learning, and camaraderie with a difference. 
Another Q1 meeting is scheduled for Bridgetown, Barbados on October 25.