A GALGAEL GRACE
We’re cast into a crazy world
Wi’ many a sore disgrace
Where greed o’turns compassion
And respect is laid to waste
Nae wonder then I linger here
Wi’ bretheren mare distinguished
Who’s grasp on human kindness
Will never be relinquished
And share a cup and give a hand
Tae those who share this greeting
To be a kent face and earn a place
At GalGael’s weekly meeting
So before we eat, let all think well
On the value of this clan
That feeds our bodies, hearts and minds
To help us make our stand
by Jethro Jeffery
This was sent to us by Alastair MacIntosh, author, activist, founder of The Centre for Human Ecology. It's from a project called Gal Gael which works with excluded young people in Glasgow to recover traditional boat building skills, give a sense of identity and meaning, and to restore community and communion. Alastair spoke at the 2009 Scottish Transition Conference and more recently at the one day Values in Transition Conference organised by Exeter University. Thanks to Alastair for sharing it with us, and to Josh for sending it in.