Swimming Underwater

 Some days it's hard to love 

the world.  Old friends reject you.

Nations threaten nuclear annihilation.

Neighbors go to church every Sunday

and abuse the waitresses at lunch.

Move forward, even if it seems impossible,

even if you're no longer steady on your feet.

Appreciate the woman at the checkout line who

insists I go ahead of her, for it is an expression 

of love for a stranger.

The old lady in the produce section

who shared opinions on the best fruit.

Try to forget the ones who see you

but no longer speak.  Focus on the ones 

who do, and remember there is good

in people and bad.  There is cowardice.

There are grudges. There is bravery.

There is love.

Smile at the little girl staring up

from her mama's skirts, afraid of my white

skin.  Smile at her and tell her she is beautiful

and bathe in her coy smile.

Nod at the homeless man 

at the entrance to the store,

and when he asks if I can spare a little money, give it

to him.  Give him more than he expected.  

It's cold outside and wet, and he has no feet,

but he still has a smile to offer.  Hope he finds a warm 

room for the night

Try not to grieve the living dead.

Just move as though through water

Each time someone pushes you under,

remember you can swim and breathe the air,

even if it burns.

And there will always be cats to cuddle.

By Elodie Pritchartt, March 10,
2023