DEATH OF TOMMY CORBETT

ON THE GOSPEL ROAD

 Heard the sad news yesterday of Tommy Corbett's passing, after a short illness. Back in the day when a few of us used to share the Gospel with Sunday night revellers outside of 'Gaywear' , Tommy was the music man who kept our spirits high with a selection of soul-stirring songs. Often we'd be there until the early hours and then back to Tommy's place for a warming cuppa and a prayer. Tommy was a gentle , strong presence passionate about the Gospel and determined to share it with one and all.Our paths diverged then for many years and the next time I met him he was busking on O'Connel Stree outside the AIB bank. Anytime I'd meet Tommy he'd literally change his tune to some Gospel favourite (usually Johnny Cash) and I'd join in. I don't think my participation added to to the coffers as far as the busking was concerned but for me it was always a joy and a privilege to share a song with my old friend.
~GOSh.~

FOR TOMMY

The last time we met
You were busking by the bank,
And I stopped
Expecting, as usual to join in
For the Johnny Cash medley,
But for once you were painfully silent,
A man distracted .
Later when I heard the diagnosis
I understood your 'quiet' better
And knew that we would never again
Duet the Gospel Road
At least not here.

You didnt hang about
Once the deal was done
And hope had been bleached
From the here and now,
And though the music died
That within could not ,
Being paid for with a price,
The Redemtive tag of One
Bleeding on a cross,
Settling that old account
Once and for all.
 
~ GERARD O'SHEA~