Devotionals arise out of practice. Sometimes they arise out of careful planning; other times they are the result of an impression in the moment. I was at the shore of Lake Erie this morning, in some way my "sea". Looking out on the distant waters in contrast to the shore, I thought, as I often do, about Manannan mac Lir. This was composed and offered on the spot. I felt Manannan's presence and this is for him - and you.
To Manannan Mac Lir
O Manannan Mac Lir
I am but a tree along the shore,
![](/system/files/small_tree_erie.jpg)
Water from the sea
Nourishes my roots,
Wind from the earth,
Blows across my branches,
Sun from the sky,
Warm against my leaves.
![](/system/files/small_shore_erie_1.jpg)
The water makes such noise
As it clashes with the shore,
Rock, splash, reverberate
Such that my thoughts are
Drowned out by the clamour
Of the surf
![](/system/files/small_shore_erie_2.jpg)
I look beyond the ninth wave
And I know that you are there
Carry me out to that place
Where profundity meets purpose
Carry us out to where
The sea meets the sky
![](/system/files/small_shore_erie_3.jpg)
Gulls fly by,
Gentle on the wind,
Where silence and
The undulating sea
Speak lessons to the soul