One Step Closer

Saw a glimpse, not long ago
Of a man I’d like to know
A look, a smile, a brief exchange
In a flash
My senses were enflamed


What to say?
What to do?
Confused
Bemused
But then, my friend, the Universe
Stepped in
And rested her hand
Upon my heated brow


She said:


“Peace, Child
Take a breath
You’re one step closer
To your life
Don’t be afraid
Your heart beats loudly
It will lead you down
The road you wish to go.”


Questions, questions in my head
Tracking
Distracting
What does this mean?
Why did that happen?
But then, my friend, the Universe
Stepped in
And kissed me softly
As the morning sun kisses the cold, hard line of the horizon


She said:


“Peace, Child
Stop and listen
You’re one step closer
To your life
Don’t be afraid
In the stillness, you will hear
A symphony
Of tragedy and ecstasy
A familiar melody


A memory
An echo
A symmetry


Wait for it to appear.


You are one step closer.”




- Shirley D. Downie, June 13, 2011