surly scots

it is with deep respect
that we remember and feast the bard
our hearts assume a familar beat
as our celebration steps boldly out.

it is without respect
that some have shared the holy meal
neither remembering nor assuming
they do not see what they most require

we each fulfil as we can see to do
the necessary obligations and honours
though some be polished and refined
and others though rude are dependable

ever our surly race has been so
a fellowship both profane and divine
when some few disrupted a robbie burns dinner
 1journey.net     jan 2007 elias