Weary from my travels
I rested in the sand
laid my head upon my shield
for no pillow was at hand.

While there I lay in fitful sleep
my mind was lead astray;
into the world of dreamers
my thoughts were led that day.

There appeared at either side 
two maidens pure and fair
looking down upon me
as I rested there.

The first was very beautiful,
a radiant delight,
with hair that flowed upon the breeze
the colour of sunlight.

Clothed in the finest fabrics
with beads upon her breast
she handed me a flower
and I felt that I was blessed.

Then I turned my eyes upon
the other maiden there
and saw a striking contrast
although she too was fair.

She dressed in sturdy clothing,
the kind the peasants wear
and on her head a cloth
nearly hid her dark brown hair.

In one hand she held a book
the other hand, a sword.
She offered them to me
speaking not a single word.

When I awoke I pondered
the meaning of this dream
for I was certain it must be
much more than what it seemed.

And then at once it came to me
the meaning it must take:
one was peace, the other, war
the choice was mine to make.



                    may 2003