I love this poem from the fabulous Mark Nepo: for anyone who has had their dreams dashed to the ground, and has emerged into the light on the other side living kinder, deeper and simpler . . . and for anyone who is still trying to pick up the pieces . . .
At first it’s about achieving.
Creating something that might last.
Then having the thing so carefully
carried break before our eyes. And
building it again. Only to have our
foundation crack. If we have the strength,
we might keep building.
But sooner or later,
we turn to help others carry simple things
or find what’s been lost. And one day
purpose is a fugitive who’s forgotten
why he’s on the run. And as the body
is worn to only what matters, we are
worn to care, not build. To Care.
About anything. About whatever is
before us. Singing. Packing groceries.
Learning the names of all the leaves
on Earth. Collecting movies that have
life in the title and giving them away.
Anything that keeps us tumbling like
bottles of light destined to break
for those thirsty enough to
drop their need of cups.
(Mark Nepo: Drinking From the River of Light)
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