In gratitude

Today’s my anniversary: 

A year ago today, Prepared for death, 

 I underwent the surgeon’s knife, 

Which opened up my chest 

And my heart to new horizons 

Even as my dear friend sent this photo 

To let me know she was at my house 

To which she was convinced I would return. 

I’m grateful for so much these days: 

For life, for home, for friends and family, 

For my surgeon and all the hospital staff 

Who brought me back to health, 

And for the earth: The sea and sky and land 

That sustain me still in times 

Of fear, darkness and despair 

For all the brokenness in the world.