Ode to International Cittaslow Conference 2011

From across the world we came 

To gather in Lidzbark Warminski 

And discuss how we see our towns and cities 

To vision just how they might be 

We shared, debated, planned and laughed 

About vino, fromages, gardens and seas 

Experiencing the pleasures and success we had 

In the fair regions of Varmia and Mazvry 

Cittaslow, Cittaslow, Cittaslow, 

What a wonderful concept it is; 

Bringing cultures and passions together 

Forging alliances, friendships and peace 

No matter the creed or tradition 

Encompassing all genders and age 

The Cittaslow family is growing 

Through courage, collaboration and with ease 

In Lidzbark the feeling was joyful 

Not frivolous, combative or false 

For we all see value and benefit in fun 

And a world that gives time to pause 

So what is Cittaslow to the world today? 

How can it benefit and assist us? 

Is Slow really what we need to embrace? 

What differences, when and what fuss? 

With very little effort one can see 

The way eyes shine and smiles appeared 

As visions and dreams were formed and built 

When simple things in life are prized

Each village, town or city who came

Has experienced the warmth, love and pride

In their own unique circumstances,

Fulfilment and enjoyment they did not hide

For it is not for others to dictate or direct

What we may cherish and place worth on

And Cittaslow is built around honouring

The contributions we each make on our own

Were the world to proceed as it has,

Many feel it will not survive long

What better time and manner can there be

Than the ways that Cittaslow focusses on?

So it is with trust, feeling and experience

That we may in practice and theory

Look to the excellent model of Cittaslow

To adopt, embrace and so build our family.

 Paul Payten 2011