A PICTURE AND A POEM: UPON TURNING 67

There is a precious synergy
between my awareness of passing years
and my deepening gratitude for life.

There is a tender vulnerability
that leads to a wider spectrum
of compassionate tears and blissful joy.

There is a gracious enigma
in that my body often feels weary and worn
while my mind remains youthful and curious.

There is an extraordinary beauty
found in the smallest acts of kindness,
both shared and received to make life lovely.

There is a treasured spaciousness
in my heart, from having less and loving more;
in my soul, from doing less and being more.

There is a hopeful wisdom
that has grown through every heartache and trial
because of every eventual resurrection.

There is a sacred reverence
in regarding all of creation as a sanctuary
in which God is present in soil, sea, sky – and soul.

There is a peaceful serenity
in trusting that I am incomplete and yet enough,
that my worth does not come from achievement.

There is a delightful humility
in finding that my increased understanding of God
has only deepened the mystery of God.

There is a gentle comfort
in knowing that my love will remain beyond my life,
and my life will remain beyond all time.