Sometimes the clouds really do have silver linings.

     Unexpected Gifts    6-3-21

I’ve heard it said,  the pandemic 
 Has been an introvert’s dream.
Being one of those who prefers
 My own company over others
  I whole heartily agree.

The challenge, now, however,
As I trepidatiously creep out
Into the sunlight from my lair
Is to make contact once more
Letting hugs melt away fear.

While spending months away
Deep inside my quiet cave
 An insatiable desire to create
Rose up and greeted me.
I stepped into a new world.

The year 20/20 is forever etched
Abysmally imbedded in memory.
Preferring not to say any more,
It is what it was and most of us
   Survived, somewhat in tact.

Saying good bye to loved ones,
A way of life eternally changed
Hiding behind doors and masks
Refraining from physical contact
    Has taken a huge toll.
  
Exploring this new world
      I discovered a new me.
      I’ve had the opportunity 
To  accept what I couldn’t change
   Exploring that which I could.

Trusting that I would be led
Into an expansion of life
From that which I’ve known,
Stretching out and touching
Virtually, beyond imagining.

Letting the time communicate
Looking for and seeking
New ways to paint, to mold
To write, to hold and caress life.
     Life has sustained me.

A soul longing for meaning
For a purpose amidst change,
So profound and lasting.
Abandoning all I’ve known
 For something unfamiliar.

Side-stepping fear, with faith
Hope has led me into the open
The consummation amidst
Known and ineffable destinations
Has created a harmonious path.


In spite of the tumult and tempest
A population and earth convulsing,
     Change forced upon us
Has not been entirely in vain.
    We are a tenacious lot.

As it is when soil is broken
   Turned over and tilled,
Preparing to plant new crops
We have faith in the seeds.
They will spring forth, new life.