bliss

stepping into day
light radiates within me
each moment brings joy

******

there’s a kind of gratitude
that seeps into the body
permeates the cells
becomes the life-blood
of each moment

this kind of gratitude
once experienced
does not fade away
when challenges
arise

this kind of gratitude
takes up residence
waves away all efforts
to diminish
or dissuade

once seated within
the heart leaps up
to do the work
that must
be done.

the process of growth
unfolds
takes hold
sees gains
that last

patience
persistence
wisdom
flow
freely

yes life still contains
loss and pain
suffering and sorrow
we mourn
cry out in grief

in the moment
we shed tears
feel the sadness
rend our hearts
groan in despair

still
embers of joy
glow softly
waiting
to be stirred.