The Pebble

Tan Y Bwlch, Aberystwyth Photo ©David Challoner

A small grey pebble

weathered by sea and feet and storm-blown nights,

shaped without touch by pressure of mountains looking on;

close by, Pen Dinas, across the bay, Yr Wyddfa.

Ancient Cambrians tell an older tale than is in your pebble genes.

Did you vibrate to the sound of Aberdyfi’s bells

long long ago, before they pealed 
beneath the waves of Cantref Gwaelod?

Gwyddno Garanhir's heartbeat stirs the waters 
that brought you to rest ashore.

Tan y Bwlch, its ancient fort and river mouth
attentive witnesses - the beach where Aber's children

form memories that draw them back again and back again,

a gravitational pull running through their lives. 
How many sunsets have you and they seen from here,
eyes scanning the faint horizon, seawards,
"Tonight you can see St David's head.
Let's wait until the light fades and the sea grows dark and calm!"
Behind the harbour wall the tinkle of ships' masts 
and a last small boat hurrying home to safety. 

©Janet Henderson 2014