A Heartfelt Thank You

Carol A. Hand

A moment of contemplation
watching a lone seagull soar silently
wings shimmering in the morning sun
the call of a solitary song bird
barely audible as busy traffic whirs by

This morning, Ojibwe wisdom comes to mind
“Be moderate in all things –
“watch, listen and consider
“your deeds will be prudent”
act only when the time is right

After a long cold dark winter
the days are warm and sunny
calling me outside to prepare gardens
neglected last summer and fall
when the weight of the world was too heavy

Balancing action and contemplation
is an ever-challenging choice
when it’s so easy to lose oneself
with distractions to escape constant noise
or engage in purposeless busyness

If we’re lucky our lives will be blessed
by those whose sparkling sprits
light up the room when they enter
reminding us we’re all connected
indispensable parts of the tree of life

The Tree of Life, a treasured gift from a former student

Acknowledgement

This post was inspired by JC, one of the kindest people I have been honored to work with during my career. She is the most tenaciously committed person I have ever encountered when it comes to learning, discovering, and applying liberatory praxis principles (knowledge-guided action). This is my way of expressing my deep gratitude to her for her kindness and for sharing her compassion and light with all those whom she encounters.

23 thoughts on “A Heartfelt Thank You”

    1. Thank you so much for your thoughtful comments, Paul. As much I as I have wished to be a fiery advocate, I have almost always been inclined to see many sides of an issue before acting. 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  4. Beautiful poem, Carol and one that has given me a quiet contemplative start to my day! This is a wonderful tribute to your dear friend and to all those who light up a room with their presence. Also, I’m taken with the tree ornament gift which is so unusual, striking and lovely. Xx

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Dear Annika, thank you for your always thoughtful, lovely comments. The tree of life medallion is uniquely beautiful, like the former student who bestowed this honor. The most treasured gift for me, though, is the symbolism – knowing that the the lessons she learned through her dedicated efforts are now bringing knowledge and kindness into the lives of others.

      Liked by 1 person

  7. “If we’re lucky our lives will be blessed
    by those whose sparkling sprits
    light up the room when they enter
    reminding us we’re all connected
    indispensable parts of the tree of life”

    This my sweet friend is how I, and so many others, feel to be in your presence. Your light shines so brightly, your energy is felt by all around you.
    This post is so incredibly touching. ❤️ Thank you.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Dear Jessie, working with you has been such a gift. I wasn’t sure how best to thank you for your kindness and for honoring me with your lovely letter and gift. I am deeply grateful to know that you will bring kindness, knowledge, and creativity into the lives of others through the work you do. I send my best wishes to you and your family. ❤

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