On one of my worst-ever days, I was beside myself with worry. Legitimate worry. For the safety and well-being of a loved one. Worrying.
Between doing all the practical things that I could and saying plenty of prayers, I was waiting for an update and hoping for anything better than the worst-case scenario. Waiting.
Amidst everything, I picked up a book – House Blessings—Prayers, Poems, and Toasts Celebrating Home and Family by June Cotner – from the small cabinet in our upstairs hall.
On that particular day, the page I randomly opened contained a poem by Sandra E. McBride titled “Letting Go.”
I’ve brought you to the mountain. The climb is yours.
I’ve brought you to the shore. The sea is yours.
I’ve brought you to the sky. The winds are yours.
I’ve brought you through the shadows. The light is yours.
I’ve brought you to this day. Tomorrow is yours.
It was one of those “it’s just what I needed” moments.
These were the exact words I needed to consider: letting go, knowing that I had done everything I could up to that point, and understanding that the person I was worried about had what they needed. I received a modicum of peace in a stressful space.
Things didn’t get better overnight, but over time—a long time—they did.
If today is one of those days that you’re worrying and waiting, I hope this poem brings you peace.
Two Links Du Jour:
House Blessings – Prayers, Poems, and Toasts Celebrating Home and Family by June Cotner – a collection of 112 interfaith prayers, poems, and toasts that speak to the experiences we share in turning our houses into our homes.
12 Things to Do When You Know Someone You Love Isn’t ‘Fine’ – Self
Two Minutes Du Jour 