Slowly and Surely (Note to Self)

Awake, O Sleeper.

Arise and walk,

—Slowly.

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Step out barefoot and look for Venus.

Shake the dew from the chamomile,

Pop off the blooms and

Plop them into your teacup.

.

Then, return to the cloister

For milk, honey and hot water.

Light a stub candle,

Tuck your cold feet up under your legs,

.

And open to the next clean page

To pour out your soul to the Lord,

“Like water spilled on the ground

Which cannot be gathered up again.”

.

When you are emptied,

He will fill you up with better stuff.

You’ll be more yourself than you’ve ever been.

Indeed, you’ll runneth over.

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Then will you be fully awake.

Eyes and ears of your heart alert.

Sure, like a wren, belly quaking

—Singing with her whole self.