The satisfaction of weary muscles
Arising from an afternoon’s gardening,
Clearing away the brambles and branches,
In hope of finding a patch of Eden.
I’ve spent a bit of time tackling the out of sight bits of the garden this weekend, very therapeutic in the midst of a busy season.
(21.09.25)
© Ben Quant 2025
Photo by David J. Boozer on Unsplash
Back at the very start,
The rain no longer matters.
I smile because the miles
Are done, the hills are past,
The churches all ticked off.
Somehow, the heavens opening
Seems appropriate.
I jump for joy in puddles
Thinking, there should be
A lamppost standing by,
For me to dance around.
I took part in the Bike ‘n’ Hike today, raising funds to maintain local historic churches. 24 churches visited over 34 miles, over 2.5 hours on the move. I’m out of practice, the legs turned to jelly after a bit, but thoroughly enjoyed myself.
(13.09.25)
© Ben Quant 2025
Interviews and in-laws
No time to type today
But perceiving poetry in
All its alliteration
A busy day with no time for more than a quick scribble.
(12.09.25)
© Ben Quant 2025
Photo by Álvaro Serrano on Unsplash
A torrent of toddlers teaming in,
A stream of squealing, screaming sound,
A shouting, shoal of shiny din.
Pouring past our open doors,
Abandoning bags and boots around,
And flowing onto every floor.
Playdough, crayons and other craft,
Friendships on a seesaw found,
Filling the church with fun and laughter.
After the break we’re back on track,
So look out folks, toddlers are back!
Our toddler group returned today after the summer holidays. It was wonderful to have them back.
(10.09.25)
© Ben Quant 2025
Photo by E Hillsley on Unsplash
Another grant sought
Moving forward step by step
Believing in God
Another busy day seeking grants for the church redevelopment project: https://wormleyfreechurch.org.uk/redevelopment-project/
(09.09.25)
© Ben Quant 2025
A day writing grants.
Need poetic ways to say,
‘Give us your money!’
Long day staring at forms. Brain dead!
(03.09.25)
© Ben Quant 2025
Photo by Cytonn Photography on Unsplash
The art of talking
To the camera whilst walking
Is a tricky thing
I’m currently preparing a video for a grant application. Managed to trip over both my own feet and tongue…
(26.06.25)
© Ben Quant 2025
Photo by Samantha Borges on Unsplash
I’ve known you for a year or so.
But then you turn to look at me,
Your identity is still unclear,
Personality unknown.
What lies behind those searching eyes?
What thoughts are hid, emotions felt?
I can but guess, they dwell obscure,
Kept veiled behind a lack of words.
Until today, that is, for then
I heard your voice. It caught me by
Surprise; you are not who I thought
You were, but now at last you’re heard.
One of the toddlers spoke to me for the first time today. It’s always fascinating to discover how the person it reveals matches up to your expectation.
(25.06.25)
© Ben Quant 2025
Photo by 🇸🇮 Janko Ferlič on Unsplash
The quiet satisfaction
Of getting to the weekend,
Resting weary feet whilst
Looking back to see
The path that we have travelled,
Surveying with satisfaction
The turnings we have taken,
And admiring once again
The views and scenery.
This may turn out to be a significant week at work.
(20.06.25)
© Ben Quant 2025
Photo by Ran Berkovich on Unsplash
She’s nearly two. Hiding behind her mother’s legs,
her eyes are like those magnetic links on wooden
trains, repelled when other eyes approach.
She risks a playful peak; it does not last.
Eventually she sees the toys surrounding her.
They call for her attention. She responds,
urgently dragging mum within her wake.
I see my chance and holding out a ball
I sit patiently, waiting for the catch.
She bites, I reel, and slowly draw her in.
Tentative fingers clasp the outstretched bait;
before she knows it’s happened we’re at play.
Toddler Group again today, and my regular quest to overcome their shyness.
(04.06.25)
© Ben Quant 2025
Photo by Clark Young on Unsplash
Ode for the Day 