The Valkyries were riding

a crescendo nearing peak

The blues played on behind them

but I was too in awe to speak

They rode that day a second time

from the pages of a book

I wondered would they ride a third

but was too afraid to look

The battles I’ve been fighting

are within and not without

My courage slow to rising

in a head that’s filled with doubt

A heart that’s slowly learning

how to follow its pull and sway

Perhaps I’ll make it to Valhalla

next time the Valkyries ride this way

---

I was on holiday with my family recently and without Wifi I managed to read a book in two days, a feat I haven’t managed for years, surrounded as I am by the temptations of piles of washing and putting stuff that isn’t mine back where it belongs (the joys of motherhood).

The book was The Valkyries by Paulo Coehlo. It had crossed by path once before and I’d been meaning to read it ever since. I’m so glad I did. It felt part story, part memoir, and I found it a fascinating dive into spirituality and creativity. I’m really only at the start of my spiritual journey, beginning to see how it informs my creativity, always wondering if I’m on the right path, and this book hit so many right notes.

On the day that I began to read it my daughter was also watching the Blues Brothers and my ears pricked up at Wagner’s Ride of The Valkyries. Not long afterwards this poem popped into my head, assuring me I’m on the right path.