NeuroDivine

The Eleventh Day of Christmas is a threshold day—not quite the brightness of Epiphany, not quite the hush of midwinter, but something in between. Those of us who live with neurodivergent rhythms often recognise this “in‑between” space instinctively: the pause before the next step, the quiet moment when light begins to gather but hasn’t yet revealed its shape.

Here in Monasterevin, thresholds are part of the landscape. The Barrow and the Grand Canal meet and move together; bridges hold their long, patient watch; paths cross and recross in ways that feel both ancient and familiar. It’s a place that understands crossings, waiting, and gentle transitions.

This hymn grows out of that sense of place. It lets Kildare’s winter light, the stillness of the water, and the steady companionship of the bridges speak into the Eleventh Day—a reminder that Christ meets us in the quiet spaces, the liminal moments, and the landscapes that hold us.

Common Metre.

1.
On this eleventh Christmas day,
Kildare light, soft and clear,
falls gently where the waters meet
and winter draws us near.

2.
The Barrow’s flow and canal’s calm
move side by side as one;
beneath the arches, quiet paths
keep vigil with the sun.

3.
The bridges hold their ancient watch
where crossings shape our lives;
they whisper stories of the saints
whose faith still walks these drives.

4.
O Christ, whose birth renews the earth,
bless every home and hall;
let peace rest on Mon’sterevin,
its river, bridge, and wall.

5.
And lead us on through dusk and dawn
till all our journeys end;
for you are Light upon the way,
our Saviour and our Friend.

Text Copyright (c) Michael McFarland Campbell 2025