h2>Dating : I Behold the Fire
Prompt
Daily gratitude for warmth against the ice storm
My body feels weighed down by too much eating; I am nonetheless thankful for food.
I feared skin cancer. A doctor confirmed otherwise.
Though I sleep alone, I am delighted for a comfortable bed.
I am panicked about aging but remain amazed at the resilience of my brain, my limbs, and my heart.
In the wrath of an ice storm, I behold the fire to stay warm.
At times of sadness and anger, I rejoice that I can write poems.
Despite my mom’s cruelty, my sisters nourish me.
I am not with my family, but I am sustained by our video calls.
Each day is an unknown; I am relieved to have flexible work.
Though my marriage feels distant, my husband’s smile encourages me.
In the wrath of an ice storm, I behold the fire to feel safe.
I can’t predict the future, but I am getting vaccinated!
When I must face isolation, meditation warms my belly.
In the torpor of boredom, acrylic paints spark my confidence.
Though often lonely, I am grateful for birdsong.
In moments of self-loathing, my kids remind me I am loved.
In the wrath of an ice storm, I behold the fire to maintain balance.
Josie Elbiry, 2021
Many thanks to Galit Birk, PhD for our prompt: Gratitude and Presence
