that I’m made out of God and dirt

I pass “go” again this week as I circle around the sun,
turning a big hopeful grinning 54.
Celebrating with 54 fresh reasons to be deep down, ridiculously glad
for my time here on this planet.
Blowing 54 kisses of thanks for……
*unreasonably long gratitude list to follow*

~ pinpoints of light that say “this is the way,”
~that my life is my own – that I have a say,
~ for unbounded hope and fluffy meringues,
~that I can do satisfied and content
while I grow, stretch, and change.

~For rivers and bridges and shelter and wings,
~for when the lonely find family and outsiders welcomed “in”
~ when someones give a damn enough to fight for what they love,
~ and all my times of weakness when I’m held and lifted up,

~ for fresh picked apples and Asian pears,
~ and springs that won’t run dry,
~the gift of a friendly listen,
~ my choices….that I get to drive

~ for friends who’d rather laugh than judge,
~ and mercy when I don’t get it right,
~ that I’m made out of God and dirt
~ and free to dance in the light,

~ for the freedom, too, to love everyone,
~ for how simple it is to be kind,
~ for how brave it is to show mercy,
~ how I don’t have to choose left or right,

~rosemary, cilantro, and medical massage,
~ old photos and their storytelling way,
~ for garlands and stables and Mussel Shoals,
~ and those “stop thinking; start breathing” days,

~For when snow falls on those who are dreaming of it,
~ and early mornings leaning into God,
~ that we don’t have to be more to be thoroughly loved,
~ and rumblings of truth in our hearts,

~that we’re worthy, valued, and built for love,
~for fishy waters, high clouds and vivid skies,
~ for fountains and mountains and daughters and sons,
~ a warm coat, a cool hat and shoes that keep my feet dry.

~ for ears to hear the roar and beating heart to feel the pain,
~for the power to be gentle
~ and the room we’re free to make,
~for “I’m sorry” and “me, too,”
~ “I need some help,” “I understand,”
~ for throttle down and rest about it,
~ that mistakes are part of the plan.

January. A double-shot of beginning for me:)
Thanks for letting me share my days with you.
That you come around and read what I sometimes write down
is honor and gift.
Love….just so much. And thanks:)

(this sweet beauty was sent to me a few years back by Elaine Kean, a then-blogger and always friend)