when the hard things come

fast and heavy we may become 

afraid to hope for better

things, living on a diet of 

starved, bare minimum,

unsatisfied, safe. 

~~~

unlike a child on christmas morn,

afraid lest we are disappointed

once again.

~~~

we forget that there is magic

to be found, unexpected delights, 

everyday joys and that anticipation

of these makes life worth savoring.

so, do not snuff out the hope that is 

yours to embrace, do not waste 

her shine.

~~~

she is a diamond to be cherished,

worn extravagantly, not wasted.

for when you neglect her presence

she might be stolen by ‘despondent’ 

whose grubby residence will 

spoil the household within, 

entire.

~~~

evict this freeloader before he settles

and clean out the space,

spotless. 

~~~

then sit under a tree or stare at the waves

and generously invite hope back into your 

mind and especially your heart,

brave.

~~~

©Heather Pound 2022

image:Ian Schneider/Unsplash