There is still room for joy
Amidst the weeds
Of violence, disease, and hate
There is still abundant room for joy
People still fall in love
Birds still sing and chirp
Water still bubbles and tumbles
Over rock laden stream bed
Clouds still grace the robin’s egg sky
Leaving wisps of lovely as they fade away
The breeze still blows fresh breaths of air
Cooling tonic for hard working bodies
Loons continue calling
One to the other
In protection and connection
The trees still bow to the wind
Their leaves fluttering joyfully
Children’s eyes continue to light up and dance
As they chase butterflies in flight.
There is still room for joy
Pause, look around, and listen attentively
Open to the joy
See the brilliant green of new growth on the cypress shrub
The green of hope.
Allow the healing power
Of nature, love and kindness
Expressed in varied ways
To wash aside
If just for a moment
The sadness, strife, hopelessness, worry and fear
Allow the joy to permeate your soul
Making the world a bit brighter
Pushing back the weeds
Making room for joy.





