Winter Turning 2016 Poem by Kathy Van Kurin

First day of winter,2016
How many times have new seasons of experience come and gone with no fan-fare? Winter solstice; 2: 41 a.m. here in the Pacific Northwest, Winter's first step; vulnerable moments of the night when we are sleeping; who will take notice?
I suppose for some, celebrating will be the signal, for we do not simply celebrate living far often enough.
One more winter, one more year passing: If we ignore the minutes will they flee more quickly, more slowly?
Look forward; when did we stop? Children know how to anticipate the future in wild abandon, giddiness of spirit; a trembling joy just to be alive.
Maybe as adults we recognize the essence which life really is- a treasure; liquid gold which helplessly we observe flowing through our outstretched hands. Such a gift, the gaining of wisdom housed within life span's seconds bestowed within our days.
Our younger selves; amazing really, that we have come to this point at all with each circuit of pain, troubles, circumstances we are all en-route. To survive, thrive, grow- this our inner fire lives bright in our souls. Where and why does this inner voice speak? We are simply a shadow. Eternity the other side, emitting God's Glory.
So ring the bells of Christmas. Look to heaven's expanse and notice how the stars vibrate in trembling expectancy. Are they for us? How complicated does it have to be, to question every detail? Why not love just because, give for its sake, breathe in and out in thankfulness and allow silent moments of peace just because and let those things out of our control just be?
Why not?
Kathy Van Kurin, December,2016