This poem came out of a prompt in the writers’ circle I’m part of, led by Rachel Devenish Ford.

I bring whimsy and laughter and hugs—

Here, have one!

Today’s too beautiful for dour, dry words and

We are delighting in spring’s light shining in eyes and

Music sparkling from fingers,

Colors spilling from dresses that drape and swoosh

Like pansy petals.

I bring cake and songs and glitter pens for everyone.

I bring questions and ache—

Here, take it—it’s heavy.

Today’s too sad for songs and

Questions rumble over trite answers and

Scattered bits of blue eggs dry in their yolks on the ground and

A storm blows disarray over the whole globe,

Smashing like feral bulls seeing red, pawing after power.

What I asked for didn’t come. What I hoped became impossible.

Celebration and sorrow.

I bring both today.

I wrote a book about living well in a place I hadn’t planned to be. It explores the curious mix of holding both joy and sorrow at the same time. You can order your copy here!