Taking Time Poem by Catherine Casey

A moment’s grace

When I was a child I saw the hands of the clock move.

I had time to watch the stars.

Today I hardly give the clouds a second thought.

But then, in those days of innocence

They were my friends.

We lingered together in grass meadows,

Sharing the sun and appreciating the air.

Yes, just the air that we breathe.

Deep lungs-full.

We raced each other on train journeys.

I looked for familiar shapes,

Dreading full blue skies in the heat of day.

Last night I had that much to do I just said ‘No! ’

I broke free from the cluttered schedule

And stepped out in to the garden.

I sat on the bench in the cool night air

As an observer.

Seeing the work I had done and what

Remained to be done.

Then one of my friends came back

From so long ago.

The moon.

That same smiley face.

I had…..almost….

Forgotten? How could I?

He reminded me of so much,

Seen from a different age and outlook.

I can’t remember the last occasion

I made time, took time like that.

It was a cool, but pleasant,

Unplanned escape.

I would like it to happen again.

But it might become part of the routine

For routines sake.

No, it has to be unplanned.

It will come again, I know.