Wexford Carol

 Wexford Carol  

The melody is of uncertain origins, and, while it is occasionally claimed to be from the early Middle Ages, it likely was composed in the 15th or 16th century based on its musical and lyrical style. The song achieved a renewed popularity due to the work of William Grattan Flood (1859–1928) -Wikipedia I am familiar with Loreena McKennitt’s recording. 

Humans have survived because of our capacity for teamwork. We survive trials and struggles not because of our most vicious moments, but in spite of them. Making use of the phrase ‘eternal life’ refers to the cycle of life continuing in its natural way, not in the sense that any one of us is granted access to eternity as an individual. Human capacity for overcoming our worst qualities in the name of teamwork is the answer our ancestors have given to us time and time again. 

 

Good people all, this wintertime 

Consider well and bear in mind 

What our good earth for us has done 

In this retreating blessed sun 

With frost about us we will play 

In sparkling fields through night and day 

In temperate climes we seek reprieve 

In the darkness of solstice eve 

  

With thankful heart and joyful mind 

The evergreens, a verdant sign 

Of adamant eternal life 

Continuing, through frigid strife 

Within these homes, our heads are laid 

All thoughts of malice have been forbade 

Ancestors long laid down to rest 

Gave lessons lasting long past their death 

  

Near countryside, or city's street 

The company of friends we keep 

With whom fine bread and drink we share 

A comforting and glorious fare 

Let us our warmth and good tidings sing 

A balm for this frozen season’s sting 

For in the falling fairy snow 

Our teams of footsteps, determined go