We drove steadily north
anticipating the red mountain’s snare,
but the fading light played tricks
and grand purple gates beckoned us forth.
A warm glow emanated from the kitchen
as a family greeted us with strong embraces,
risking disease to share their love.
Stories over dinner
eased my soul and games
made us all smile, minds
dimming after the long drive.
Night changed to dawn as we nestled
under old quilts of flowers and birds
breathing in the universal scent of home.
Our days—
hours consumed by stone skipping,
sheep hugs, musicals, family—
left me feeling tired and whole.
That short week,
the three still-born lambs,
and a chosen family of love
reminded me of
the importance of life.
So It Goes 