The Journey Inward

I want to collect and embody pieces of my people,
The traits and mannerisms and behaviors that I admire.

In no particular order,
I place my order
To elevate and rise up.

From my oldest, I embrace her passion,
Not for her job or her income,
But for her love of books that expand her thinking,
For cheeses, that expand her palette,
For tennis that expands her motivation.

From my middle, I welcome her internal validation,
The way she thrives on ritual and routine,
On time spent alone and in solitary pursuits,
Her discipline and determination,
For honoring her needs.

From my youngest, I accept her connectedness,
Her compassion and empathy for those in need of a shoulder or ear,
Her ability to ask for help,
Her humor that doesn't take anything too seriously,
For her openness.

From my partner, I choose his wonder,
His curiosity for everything that crosses his path,
His trips down rabbit holes that envelop his attention,
His humor that is quick witted and smart,
His charm that puts everyone at ease.

From a 4th grader new to my school, I receive her confidence,
To speak freely and authentically without self consciousness,
To assume her new classmates will become friends,
To articulate her dreams with conviction.

From a 3rd grader, I capture their freedom,
To dress and accessorize as they want,
To choose activities they love with no apology,
Even if it is not what is done by peers.

From my friends, I grab hold of their super powers...
One's ability to slow down and savor each moment, being fully present,
Another's ability to be vulnerable and true, trusting that others have her,
The decisiveness of M as she follows her heart,
The empathy of J, who hasn't let her setbacks rob her of compassion,
The loyalty of S, who reaches out and keeps our 55 year bond going strong,
The honesty of T, who always desires to be herself,
The ease of M, who is able to just let it all go.

I gather and pull in these people and their very best,
And look to embody these traits I admire,
And have learned from the grace of their friendship.
I am better, stronger, kinder, gentler, and more whole,
Because I have collected from the very best.