Ode to RDD by Terry Daniell

So the mighty totara has fallen
Upon the descendants below.
Our rangitira has departed
Where old rangitiras go.

No more the fount of wisdom
Freely given to those who requested.
Even to those who had not
His advice was warmly attested.

A life full of challenge
Grasped with both hands.
Here there and far
Across many lands.

Restive, restless, progressive,
Forever challenging, debating.
Status quo rarely satisfying
Always In need of reviewing

Leading, organising,
Striving for improvement
No obstacle too daunting,
No bridge too far.

Now at peace and at rest,
No more earthly battles to face.
Gone - not forgotten
A life lived at real pace.


Terry Daniell October 2010