When the time comes
and the devastating news
or dreaded diagnosis is spoken aloud
and the earth gives way beneath
our weary feet
how does one begin
to steady oneself
and not lose hope
and find our next graceful
or awkward or tremulous step?
In that crucial moment
perhaps what matters most
is where we choose to turn
because none of us is wise enough
or strong enough
or capable enough alone…
certainly not when our world turns wobbly
on its axis and our balance
becomes impossibly precarious
and so how do we find the will
and willingness to let go
of the lone ranger mythos
and reach out to hold on
to those around us all the while
summoning up our own inner
strength and resilience?
When time and our life suddenly
and inexplicably change course
how do we find the courage
to take up the gauntlet
and take on what life has strewn
onto our path
whether by accident or
the unintended consequences
of a design gone awry?
Have we not, each and all of us
at some time
and perhaps many times
faced those life-altering moments
where nothing will ever again
be quite the same?
And does it not seem that
our collective wisdom reveals
only that there is no one right way
no assuredly best way…
only the way we decide upon
and the heartfulness
we bring to our now journey
accompanied by the love
we allow in
to ease our way?
from the heart, mind, and pen of Minx.
Feeling your fear, hope, and fortitude in your words, Minx.
“A reminder to Self to simultaneously reach in and reach out when the going gets tough.” may be the words others will also find strength from. What do you need from this community at the moment?
What an interesting question Charlotte. I am not sure of “what I need from this community” other than the gentle encouragement to keep on allowing myself to be vulnerable on the page. What I appreciate is a white space to share what I am called to share and the responses of those who choose to connect with me. This is a very welcoming place for all of us. The Pitoccos are creating a “home” for those of us who explore the power of words to find/share our voices. That in itself is very special. I often take what has been published and share it widely with friends and colleagues from many different circles of belonging.
Excellent poem. You expressed so many feelings here! I agree we all have to find our way through love. Life can be difficult but we just have to keep the faith.
I agree. Keeping the faith is a lifetime practice… simple but not easy.
I often write poetry when I feel lost or confused or devastated and in need of guidance. These words were startlingly TRUE for me at the moment I wrote them and they are even more TRUE for me right now. A reminder to Self to simultaneously reach in and reach out when the going gets tough. My prayer is that others will find strength and succor in them.
Dennis Pitocco, I sometimes think you are a mind reader in your choices!. Whether reading my own words or those of others you have posted on this site, they seem to resonate deeply with whatever is happening in my own world in the moment.