Thankful and mindful

The leaves are down and crisp with frost 

That sparkles in the morning sun 

As winter’s chill moves in. 

Be thankful for what warmth you’ve found, 

And mindful of those who shiver in the cold.

You’re an original

Judging by appearances, 

You might think this is a pumpkin 

Only a mother could love. 

But arranged with a bunch of “normal” pumpkins, 

She turns ordinary into extraordinary.

 

Don’t be afraid to be different: 

 That which sets you apart 

Might be exactly what is needed in this world.

Sharing our needs

To be thoughtful and kind does not have to mean 

 We carry our unvoiced needs to the grave,

 Hoping someone will notice. 

Those of us who find joy in caring for others 

May need to remember, as the old song says, 

“No one can fill those of your needs 

That you won’t let show.” 

Listen to your heart, and don’t be afraid 

 To let others know how you feel: 

Allow them to feel the joy of caring for you.

Inevitable imperfections

It’s important to remember 
That however perfect life may seem, 
There will always be imperfections. 
Yes, this town is fortunate 
To be blessed with views 
Of both water and mountains, 
But those beautiful plumes spewing forth 
Carry within them the distinctive scent
 Of a paper mill. 
Whatever you’re choosing — 
 A job, a mate, a home, a community— 
You’ll need to know what’s important to you 
And learn to accept and even appreciate 
The gifts contained in the inevitable imperfections.

Seek th blessings

There are the clouds that drift into our lives

 And the ones we make ourselves, 

When in our rush to achieve and acquire 

 We divide all our experiences 

 Into high and low, good and bad: 

Divisions insubstantial that can interfere 

With learning and growth. 

Seek, instead, the blessings 

 That reside in each moment, and be thankful.

Be the light

The morning sun gilds the trees 

And turns the bottom of the seagulls’ wings 

To gold as they surf the wind. 

May you find light today, 

And BE the light 

That brightens someone else’s morning.

Sunday’s invitation

Each week begins anew 

With Sunday’s invitation to recharge.

Setting aside our concerns, however briefly,

We find a way to rest out at the edge 

Of whatever challenges we face 

And turn our gaze to the peace that lies 

Just beyond our grasp, 

 Listening for its echoes deep within.