Don’t Hesitate by Mary Oliver

“If you suddenly and unexpectedly feel joy, don’t hesitate. Give in to it. There are plenty of lives and whole towns destroyed or about to be. We are not wise, and not very often kind. And much can never be redeemed. Still, life has some possibility left. Perhaps this is its way of fighting back, that sometimes something happens better than all the riches or power in the world. It could be anything, but very likely you notice it in the instant when love begins. Anyway, that’s often the case. Anyway, whatever it is, don’t be afraid of its plenty. Joy is not made to be a crumb.”

It’s been a grey and gloomy end to November and beginning of December. Rain and warm temperatures has made the pastures muddy, soggy, and somewhat smelly. November’s election delivered the new administration I’d hoped for, but the current one continues to wreck havoc. Covid is everywhere again, thanks to our nation’s inability to take it seriously and behave responsibly. It’s hard to find joy these days…

But then, Nature finds a way to solace. We had a full moon, even though the sky was cloud filled. Sitting by the big barn, the flock all in for the night and Bowie finishing up her final perimeter check, I watched the moon dance through silver clouds. Owls hooted here and there, as late night settled on our valley; settled over me.

Who knows what tomorrow will bring; new reasons to worry and rage, no doubt. But this night’s sky gave reason for joy, and I’m glad I paid notice.