We used to play a game
when I was in primary one
at the Long Tower Girls’ School
in Derry.

The game was called
“Run Around Derry”.
It involved the whole class
sitting in a ring
while one girl
ran all around it
as we sang.

When we chorused
“This is the one I love,
I love, I love.
This is the one I love,
E – I – O!”
the runner would select
another girl
to take her place.
Then the game, and the song,
would start all over again.

That all seems
like a long, long time ago!

At night time
when I slip into bed
and snuggle up beside Paul
that song often pops
into my head
and I find myself thinking,
“This is the one I love!”
And I have a strong sense
that right here,
by Paul’s side,
is exactly where I belong.

I quickly give thanks to My God
as I drift off
into sleep.

© Claire Murray, 16/1/16