We each our crosses have to bear,

As along life's path we tread.

Some so heavy, some so light,

Bringing nightmares for to fright.

Physical pain and hurt are there,

Mental agonies take their share.

Patience is needed, tolerance too,

To shoulder responsibilities new.

Which are thrust upon us by fate unseen,

To challenge our humanity and compassion,

To trust in that which we cannot see.

I only know for the cross which is mine,

I'd think twice before I changed it for thine.

For yours is so heavy, and mine so light,

I fear the weight of your burden some plight.

Maybe strength and courage are what I lack,

But what I do believe is true,

Is to have faith in all you pursue. By Ian Platt

Thornton Avenue, Heaton

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.