“I dwell in possibility.” – Emily Dickinson

We sat cross-legged, seven friends and I, a circle of artists, each in turn responding to a poem we had just heard, one of David Whyte‘s: “Start close in / don’t take the second step / or the third / start with the first / . . . ” I couldn’t see the next step in my life, the one close in. A tiny voice of panic was whispering to me that, at my age, there was really nowhere I could go from here.

Before I could respond, a woman older than I updated us on her health. She couldn’t walk without pain. It should have been discouraging. But, peaceful and relaxed, she told us that she was looking forward to all the possibilities the future held for her. It made me realize that I could choose to dwell in panic or possibility – only one provides the calm I want for my spirit.

Helen Keller said, “No pessimist ever discovered the secret of the stars, or sailed to an uncharted land, or opened a new doorway for the human spirit.” Dwell not in problems but possibilities. Nourish peace, cultivate loving kindness, and carry the calm.

Nature of the week:

Shadow of the Week – a poolside table:

Text and photos © 2016 Karyn Henley. All rights reserved.