no matter what your thoughts might say

on this particular morning fresh,

no matter what life has thrown your way

in challenges and in highs and lows,

still there is always possibility.

 

do not think that joy has passed you by

like a tornado jumping house to house,

striking one and missing yours, never having

felt caught up in her tremendous grasp.

 

because perhaps for you it will come as the

gentlest scent on a summer breeze, pregnant

with humidity and not necessarily a familiar,

comfortable thing.

 

all i know if that joy is not stingy, she does

not snub or distinctions  make. no, she is

a friend to each and every one willing

 

to draw her in. and if she has not recently

your way come, then make sure you allow

yourself to linger in the kinds of spaces

she might frequent.

 

because sooner or later, she will arrive,

freshly bathed and dressed in her best,

and you must be ready to welcome her

in friendship and cheerful conversation

 

or even in peaceful quiet and flickering

firelight, just enjoying her presence

and her careful, ministering manner.

lean in, lean in to her gaze.

 

Heather Pound 2024

Photo by Kelli McClintock on Unsplash