To Mark Brennan
***
Our own subordinates did need us
And missed us badly day by day,
While we were being trained as “leaders” -
Whatever that is meant to say.
We searched our souls with sieve and funnel,
For hours fumbling in the dark,
Before we saw the end of tunnel,
Where we were ably led by Mark.
We talked of carrots, sticks and rifles
To use along the power path.
We may be narcissists - a trifle,
But - god forbid - not psychopaths!
We have confirmed what we hold dear -
Promoting love and fighting hate,
Although our teams are hard to steer
And harder still - to motivate.
No use to holler or to rattle -
You need to be agile, but brave.
For if you lose this game and battle,
You’ll take it to your flipping grave.
We know that it may take us ages,
A billion words and tons of mail -
But we are stubborn and courageous,
And Mark my word – we shall prevail!
*)