I have slipped the surly bonds of earth.
High Flight
Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of earth
And danced the sky on laughter-silvered wings;
Sunward I’ve climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth
Of sun-split clouds–and done a hundred things
You have not dreamed of–wheeled and soared and swung
High in the sunlit silence. Hov’ring there
I’ve chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through footless halls of air.
Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue
I’ve topped the windswept heights with easy grace
Where never lark, or even eagle flew.
And, while with silent, lifting mind I’ve trod
The high untrespassed sanctity of space,
Put out my hand, and touched the face of God.
–John Gillespie Magee, Jr.
After reading High Flight,, I have felt peace. After the death of my sister, then my young, beautiful granddaughter of cancer, I did not felt angry. Now I’m putting that away and I know there is a place where they are carefree and pain free. Thank you
This was a favorite of my aunt and read at her memorial service by her daughter, a devoted follower of “War Birds”. It has special meaning to me.
Love this. I have advanced breast cancer, so I’m in the process of sketching out plans for my memorial service. This is now in the “script” (such as it is). Thank you, Dana!
I am so sorry to hear this, Jean. My very best wishes to you and your family.