St. David – our patron Saint
By Rob Jones (World of Words)
The great person St. David was also known as Dewi Sant
An influential and intelligent icon who is worthy of a chant,
We call his name on March 1st and celebrate the Welsh nation
Honouring a legendary man who deserves an accreditation.
In a fierce storm – a strong baby David was born in somewhat ugly hours
The son of mam – Saint Non and chieftain Sant – a dad with tribal powers,
A magical male whose grandfather was a fearless Cerdigion king
Our patron saint of Wales to be – had many great things to bring.
His life in the sixth century featured miracles and a driven will
As he used special skills and also brought better health to the ill,
During the years 500 to 589 AD – many moons ago in a distant past
David made monumental, mystical memories that will forever last.
As the Bishop of Mynyw, monasteries were built across our land
Both a teacher and preacher this soothing soul led followers by the hand,
Leading a simple vegetarian life without either beer or meat
Leading the Synod of Brefi he made a hill rise under his feet.
Eating a basic diet that was limited by the foods we eat now
The monastic rule of David asked for a monk to pull its plough,
Joy and faith were aims and for citizens to have constructive roles
Discipline and respect would follow, and sharing were the goals.
Giving so much to everyday people but taking was a zero
For Blind Paulinus – his sight was restored by our saintly hero,
Though he was well-known when both active and alive
Positivity, pride, and passion made those around him thrive.
So much achieved on drinking water and eating many leeks
In the pastures of the red dragon – a fine fellow peaks,
Skilled in maths and music and the learnings of the Lord
His influence went well beyond the country he adored.
The leek as a national symbol sprung out of Dewi’s days
A hungry crowd was satisfied, he never ceased to amaze,
The gifted one created a spring by striking on the ground
The monks prayed and studied without as much as a sound.
This religious royal ruled with a righteous realm not a regal rod,
A white dove rests on a shoulder when he dies and joins his God,
A part of Welsh history – Saint David – he did paint
And six centuries after death he got the title of saint.
A legacy is left in St Davids – the UK’s smallest city
Where a colossal cathedral sits in an area that is pretty,
His flag of black with a yellow cross is an identity of Wales
And on the first day of March – the Welsh spirit never fails.
And every year since the 12th century – Wales comes together
Ages from young to old – inside or outside in any weather,
So March 1st is here again – time to get sensible and steady
Its red shirts, daffodils, leeks and costumes – all to the ready!
So never ever forget the story of this leader and his global fame
This history makes the Welsh unique, and who wants to be the same?
Now you know many facts about Saint David to go away and discuss
Not a Patrick, Andrew or George for Wales – it’s Saint David for us!
An honest human arrived in Pembrokeshire on the banks of the Alun river
This force of nature decided that his focus on earth was to be a giver,
Whether as a child or adult – St. David offers us fine lessons we can learn
And from this wisdom please remember to do other people a good turn.
Enjoy St. David’s Day, dress up, sing songs and have an abundance of fun
Get your life on the road to success, get your chores and work all done,
Carry hope and helping in your mind, but leave any negativity on the shelf
Show concern and kindness to people you meet and do the best for yourself!