Be as fast as a dash to the car

in bitter cold

to forgive the wrongs

that you perceive done to you.

Be as slow as the passing of time

on a long, gray day

to take offense

at any sleight,

whether intended,

careless,

or only imagined.

Be as slow

as the thawing

of thick ice

in dark shade

to contemplate

retaliation.

Be as fast

as a sled on packed snow

to show compassion,

mercy,

grace.

In all that you face,

may you honor

the Presence

that gives you life.

And may you crave peace

as much as huddled birds

seek shelter

beneath the low branches

shadowing the snow.

H. Arnett

12/09/11