Peter Mayer

Looking for the Dove

Peter Mayer


I remember she was here
It seemed to be her place to rest
Until a flood of blood and tears
Washed away her nest

Was it when we felt afraid?
Or when we became us and them?
Or when the plans of war were laid?
Can you tell me, was it then

That the bird of peace escaped our hands
To find an olive branch
Of kindness and of love
Flew away, leaving us to stand
Scanning the horizon
And the dreary skies above
Looking for the dove

I've seen hawks and I've seen crows
And I've heard their angry cries
I've seen buzzards flying low
But haven't heard her lullaby

But we were foolish to believe
She'd be an easy bird to keep
We gave her a nest, a bed to rest
But didn't know that even though she dreams
The dove of peace can never sleep

So the bird…

That the bird of peace escaped our hands
To find an olive branch
Of kindness and of love
Flew away, leaving us to stand
Scanning the horizon
And the dreary skies above
Looking for the dove

Come back to us
Come back to us
Sweet Dove