12 July 2012
A lifetime ago I'd be marching all day I didn't really know why, it was just the way.
Banners held high depicting battles of lore As I follow follow, wearing sash my father wore.
Behind the fun and the party, the reason to join Was to revel and cheer in the victorious Boyne
Then welcomed to a world of secret knocks and rites, Of speeches enticing and goading the foolish to fight.
What started as fun and a pride in my past Was trying to make me put my friendships last.
A peace is upon us and time heals all ills it is said Under a flag of a bloodied hand that is red.
I still sing a song and pray 'no more dead' I pity the men that are more easily led.
And so I will raise a glass to goodwill and to health Let Ulster enjoy a peaceful, glorious twelfth.
Twelfth • Opuss № I