Although the poetess does not identify where in England she once lived, I thought this was a delightful poem for this Easter weekend -- especially on the sad occasion of the passing of the Queen Mother. AWAY FROM HOME How did I ever leave England, the land that was there from my start, from the rain-scented days of my childhood to the summers that captured my heart? I was so young and unknowing when I saw her recede, from the air. My life stretched before me, unending, and my England would always be there. I couldn't have dreamed how I'd miss her, how I'd yearn for her temperate clime, for the family and friends that I left there, for a simpler and more tranquil time. How the call of the islands is magic! It haunts every daytime and night, from the mountains and mist-laden valleys to the villages tucked out of sight. So give me, oh, give me my England, when my feet are too tired to go on, and I'll wear all her daisies in my bonny hair long after the greyness is gone! Give me, oh, give me my England! I will sing her forever in song! For it's there I was born, and it's there I'll return, to the land where I truly belong! -- Ann Rayner, Van Nuys, CA USA, "Best of British, Past & Present "