Healing

To the one whose soul is formed out of the same stuff as mine,

Who works sequestered in the corner of the hallway permeating with perfume,

an unexpected classroom neighbor when this and that changed in the heat of August.

To the 20 something who is beautifully honest and lets the tears run their course,

To the one who knows life is waves and seasons and reeling of emotions,

Who cares deeply, asks big questions, and is concerned with a glory not her own.

Enticing me with the culture of an island much warmer than this,

You are a perfectly timed gift.

To the one who makes me laugh more than any other--

With her own laughter at all the wrong times and the right times and every moment in between,

Grace in the shape of a student.

Scarred by local systems spewing stupid and worthless,

This year, too, has been an unfurling, blossoming into her own skin,

Relearning the definition of child, beauty, worth,

A free spirit, reminder of faith.

You make me happy.

To the one who let’s me just be,

Who loves well and gives generously and fights for what is best.

A teaching mom who is pulled in three million directions but always makes time,

For conversations on calling and Keller and community,

A real-gospel-preaching, others-first, Jesus lover.

To the woman who has run countless errands and surprised me with too many homemade treats,

A soul connection as we live slow and live through these final days,

You are a picture of grace.

...tangible expressions of Love.
Grateful.