A slight flush of orange and bright rust
touches the eastern horizon 
on a cloudless morning.
Above that, a pastel blue
transitions to darker hues
rounding into the unlit sky overhead.

Just beyond the porch
and then just beyond the edge of the yard,
the light etches stark silhouettes 
of maple, elm, and catalpa.
A single light a quarter mile away
glows in the black band
between morning’s warming
and everything else below the ridge.

I have slept safe and warm,
untorn by fears or troubles near or far.
I am well fed and loved by those dear to me.
My labors are unforced and most of my few troubles
are by my own choice.
I am able to rise and meet the needs of the day:
tend the horses, mend the fence, make coffee.

A little later, Lord willing,
family will gather around a table
spread with plenty.
There will be love and laughter in the voices
and bittersweet thoughts of those no longer with us.

It is well with my soul
and I will be thankful
on this good day that the Lord has made.


H. Arnett
11/23/2023