"Now as at all times I can see in the mind's eye,
In their stiff, painted clothes, the pale unsatisfied ones
Appear and disappear in the blue depth of the sky
With all their ancient faces like rain-beaten stones,
And all their helms of silver hovering side by side,
And all their eyes still fixed, hoping to find once more,
Being by Calvary's turbulence unsatisfied,
The uncontrollable mystery on the bestial floor."


W B Yeats




The Song of Simeon

At last, all powerful master,
you give leave to your servant to go in peace, according to your promise.

For my eyes have seen your salvation,
Which you have prepared for all nations,
The light to enlighten the Gentiles
And give glory to your people Israel.

Luke 2, 29-32