May 19, 2009

Not What I Expected

At a loss for inspired words
I went out for a walk in the park this morning.

Awed by the brilliant green leaves...
...against the vibrant blue sky



Inspired by the concert of birds
...that sang from the treetop

A goldfinch chirped as he flew over my shoulder
Inviting me to join him as he swooped
From tree to tree
I tried to follow, but lost sight of him
But then I saw him...
Nestled in the grass
Like the dozens of robins searching for breakfast

Quietly I tiptoed
Hoping to get close enough to enjoy
The sight of his electric yellow feathers
Against the fresh green grass

Ever so quiet
Pausing between steps
Finally close enough to see...
...that the "goldfinch" was merely a buttercup
Standing tall amidst the grass.



Today I Pray
...that even if what I find
as I walk along the path
isn't what I'm expecting
...I am still able to appreciate the beauty
in the journey.

4 comments:

Momma Chae said...

Beautiful. Thank you for this peaceful and lovely prayer. I needed it.

aquamaureen said...

Have you read "The Shack?" Quite a powerful book. The point is made about the difference between "expectation" and "expectancy"--what I remember is that "expectation" often locks us in to a narrow mindset. We can only see goldfinches or chickadees because that is what we EXPECT to see. But "expectancy" is more wide open to wonder and possibility. And if the Creator of the whole universe is the One laying treasures before us, then we surely want to be wide open to all the infinite possibilities, don't we?

This was a beautifully written post--you are obviously an accomplished poet. I "saw" the scene unfold as you described it. Lovely. Thank you.

Anonymous said...

This is deeply beautiful. I read the shack as well (Awesome Book!). It's a true blessing when we are allowed to see the beauties we were not even looking for.

Lauren said...

Thank you all so much for your kindness.

I too love The Shack. It's one of those books that really changes your outlook -- really makes you stop and think. Thanks for bringing it up here on my blog. Have a great day. :)

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