Rudyard Kipling’s original Recessional has insightswhich are still very significant, but the 19th century wording and politics needs to go. I have kept Kipling’s key phrases, rhyme and meter.
Guided by God our fathers forged
the Commonwealth for us to lead.
Some member states for self-rule urged
and trusted us in word and deed.
We turned them back and blocked their way,
strife that continues to this day.
For promise broken, trust abused,
for our departure from Your side,
their basic human rights refused,
for our blind ignorance, and pride,
for frantic boast and foolish word,
Your mercy on Your people, Lord.
Though we accept Empire’s demise,
the rule by might no more our part,
still stands the ancient sacrifice,
a humble and a contrite heart.
Judge of the nations, spare us yet
lest we forget, lest we forget.
Your wisdom, Lord, shall run its course
from us to people in despair,
peace grown within, not kept by force,
love not self-serving, free and fair.
Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet
lest we forget, lest we forget.
Peter Dixon