Gateway 10

th
Birthday Poem
By Nicholas Carroll


This is your birthday, your anniversary
Youre ten today, why be contrary?
Ten long years of hardship and toil,
You grew in stature as the kettle did boil.
This is a special day to mark your existence,
You fought hard to keep Gateway open to all,
Your arms open wide for a stranger to call.
You welcome every waif and stray
Now its your turn, this is your day!
From humble beginnings you grow in strength.
Every stranger that calls is welcomed anew
Gateway welcomes everyone, not just the few.


Gateway is our place, its where were at.
Gateway opens its doors to all, both humble and proud.
The table always laden with biscuits and fruit,
A place to rest for the weary of heart,
A place to begin again, and make a fresh start.
The funding is secure for another year.
Gateway will stay open, have no fear.
With each year that passes and a welcome anew
Gateway is for everyone, not just the few.


Chewing a biscuit, a cup of tea in the hand
As balls clatter a game of pool begins,
The black ball is potted to tremendous applause!
Gateway is a place, members call home.
Gateway gathers its brood like a mother chick
Gateway is mine, every last brick.


Gateway is ten to mark this event,
Give generously, every last cent.
With a party to throw so people might call
Another year over, lets have a ball!
As verses do rhyme, my poem must end
With a warm thank you and flowers to send.



Written in celebration of Gateway Projects 10
th
Birthday, 9
th
October 2014 Nicholas Carroll 2014