Since you never know
just when, and where and how
it might be manifest. Watch children
and the rich in years, those winter birds
that wait with us through bitter months.
Renew the flame of quiet contemplation.
Dig out the old books and the songs
that fed you long ago back when
the soul was tender toward mystery
and holiness. Above all else
be careful about care, so that
in the rush of doing things for others
you avoid spending all your time on things
not on the others. That way lies
barrenness and Herod’s hasty sword.
