
The truth is
if we slowed down
and got close enough
we wouldn't be able to handle
the beauty
on this summer evening, everywhere
my eyes fall
another miracle
stares back
giant oaks spread out like gods
big-eared bunnies munching under open sky
blackberries plump on the vine
invite me to taste their almost sweet
insides. As I round the corner
I lock eyes with three deer - all of us still
and staring. With our eyes
we say - I love you. Winged ones
I cannot see sing
their end-of-the-day lullaby
each step
lifts me higher
until at last, breathing more deeply
than I have in a long time
I see
the whole wide sweeping
tree-filled valley. And then - I weep
for, truly I cannot handle the beauty
even from this distance. Then -
I would not make this up
a whole family of wild turkeys
cross the trail in front of me - each one pausing
to wait for the next. All of this
my heart
gets to see, to feel - to memorize. With light
now fading
I begin my long slow
walk home
slow enough to notice
golden grass bent in prayer
slow enough
to bend too - praying
that I will never stop
seeing
praying that I will walk
slow enough to fall in love
again and again
and again
even if it makes me weep
even it feels too much to handle
praying
that each step draws me close
and closer still
*Photo found HERE
oh Julia... soooo beautiful
ReplyDeleteinside your words I see that beauty
displayed in all it's glory
I wish I could describe the way the wind
plays with the trees, each leave in it's own dance
in silent joy
I stand
in the garden
grateful to be a part
of this wonderful thing
LIFE
You just described it beautifully, dear Luna.
DeleteI'm so grateful for you and your much needed/appreciated voice.
“All of this, my heart gets to see/to feel - to memorize.”
ReplyDeleteThis is one of our greatest gifts, and it is one that can so easily get lost in the hustle and bustle of our lives. There is so much beauty waiting to fill us, if we walk slowly and drink deeply. This part of your gorgeous poem absolutely gives me chills, Julia:
“slow enough
to notice golden grass bent in prayer
slow enough to bend too - praying
that I will never
stop
seeing
praying that I will walk
slow enough to fall in love
again and again”
I’m going to write these lovely words somewhere where I will see them often, where they will remind me to walk slowly and allow myself to fall in love over and over again. Thank you, Julia.
Jenna, you are such a beautiful person. I feel like the divine waters of Jenna just poured down on me and blessed me.
DeleteI am continually blown away by the beauty that is waiting when I slow it all down. Takes your breath away.
So much love to you, dear hearted one.
You and your words are the most sacred of gifts. Gratitude and blessings!
ReplyDeleteCarla, these words from you warm me completely up. Thank you.
Delete