#SeasonalSonnets: 15th Dec.

Hello my lovely readers!

This evening's #SeasonalSonnets entry is once more a follow on from yesterday's, though with a rather different message. This time it's inspired by, and in support of, a friend from my undergrad days. I met James Beavis, who is an extremely passionate and committed charity fundraiser, whilst I was training to walk to collect my degree. He gave me some invaluable advice and support in my quest to raise money and awareness for Starlight - and at last I have the chance to return the favour. For thirty-one days, from 9th December 2016 until 9th January 2017, James is sleeping rough on the streets of London in order to raise at least £25,000 for the charity 'Crisis', who provide meals, warmth and safety for homeless people over this festive season - a time when many other shelters and programmes turn people away.

So, once you've read my sonnet, if this is a cause that you can get behind, I strongly encourage you to visit the #homelessatxmas on social media - and, if you can, to donate to Beavis' page here. Homelessness is a huge issue already, and it's getting bigger - the numbers of people sleeping rough have increased by 45% in the last six years. But, as Beavis is showing, we can make a difference - just £22.32 provides a place for someone at 'Crisis' this season - and if that's not feasible, engagement will be a massive help too.

Thanks for reading - stay as happy and healthy and warm as possible.

 

15^th December

I wrote last night of how I love my home,

for giving me a chance to clear my head,

and how I miss my dogs when I am gone;

the mornings when we snuggle up in bed.

This time o’year, there are great many folks

whose only resting spot is on the streets,

with no shelter from the icy wind that chokes

or ‘gainst drunk rev’llers and their wand’ring feet.

So whilst we’re lounging in festivity*,

surrounded by our dear friends and relations,

spare thoughts and coins for ‘Crisis’ charity,

who help those left outside such celebrations.

Since the most likely weather now is sleet

we all need a warm place to sleep and eat.

*Of various religious and secular types

Copyright Jessi Parrott December 2016