Be the light

I know it can be dark these days, 

But somewhere in this night 

Though it be tucked behind a cloud 

There is a light that shines. 

And if you cannot see that light, 

It may be time for you to be that light 

For others, who also struggle in the dark.

Learning to listen

I watch the seagulls, 

And they watch me, 

Occasionally engaging 

On this gray and windy day, 

And their full white breasts 

Bring back memories of the goose 

I once held in my arms 

And mothered into adulthood. 

These animals have so much to teach us. 

When will we stop and listen?

Otters

I’ve always been a fan of otters: 

There’s something about the joy they find 

Both on the water’s surface 

And in its depths, 

And the way they float on their backs 

While carrying their young 

That seems so open, and tender… 

So I totally understand 

Why an artist would choose to recreate them 

And why my town would place them here 

For all to enjoy.

Let beauty feed your soul

This photo was taken at sunrise, 

But my camera was facing west: 

Quite a surprise! 

 Just a reminder: 

Beauty can be found 

In unexpected places, 

So be brave, and bold, 

And look about you: 

 There is always beauty somewhere. 

Find it, and let it feed your soul.

Protecting the vulnerable

Help us always 

 To see beyond the distractions 

To the vulnerability that lies waiting 

To be tenderly cared for 

And gently exposed to the light.

Build habits of peace

My husband has a habit 

Of complaining about technology 

 While I, of late, have found myself 

Complaining just as much, 

But about politics. 

It’s time, I think, though I won’t deny 

Our complaints are well deserved, 

To actively seek a return to that space 

Within our hearts where peace is found, 

And to focus on nurturing that 

Til it expands beyond our selves 

And softens the conflicts of the world.

In mourning

Today we mourn the collapse 

Of something beautiful, 

And weep for the loss 

Of the ideals we held dear: 

How could so many folks condone 

This senseless killing?