Sunspots And Other Phenomena Poem by Mary Angela Douglas

while the famous say goodbye to each other

at all the best funerals

dare we mention beside the struggling azaleas

our hearts are filled always

with an unaffordable lament

that the wall that divides us

seems always to be money

money and the gift to shine

even at others' expense at worst; at best,

to shine more virtuously by chapter and verse

to be recognized for this or that

and while I admit

it is pure joy to see those with gifts

on the right stage even at sunset

still it is somehow more important

to be at peace with God with beauty

like songbirds, requiring no acknowledgement

in an overshadowed life

singing beyond the green branches and forever.

we hope you will, too.

be more than iridescent

leaving the door, ajar

and learn to be happy at times, even simple:

with only the moon and the stars

mary angela douglas 20 january 2023