Be strong enough to let go
before the rope you’re holding
drags you over the molding edge
and breaks you deep
on the stony ledge below.

Be smart enough to know
that you don’t know everything
and that life will bring you many
who know other than you do
if you are truly willing to listen.

Be tough enough
that your gentle touch
can anchor a heart,
heal scars,
leave fear and wrath
whimpering outside the door,
and give strength to the fragile soul.

Be humble enough
to bow your head
when a beggar prays,
when a child gives thanks,
or when a single drop of rain
clings to the edge of the tender leaf.

Be touched by the grief of others,
rejoice in the births of strangers,
dance at the weddings of friends,
be grateful even at the end of a line,
drink lightly of the smoothest wine,
and dine sumptuously on the truly fine things of life:
love, laughter, peace, mercy, hope, compassion, forgiveness
and grace.

H. Arnett
12/5/19