I wake to dawn mist hanging over the meadow
reflecting light to a darkly brooding sky,
sheep bleating their welcome to the day
eager butterflies lighting on fading summer flowers
and I am full of wonder.

I lie cocooned in tranquil silence
broken only by the whisper of a gentle breeze,
the Curlews’ haunting call
and the echo of a drumming Woodpecker.
I delight in nature’s song.

I rise with aching back and stiff limbs,
my first thought to chide my aging body
until I remember everything it has lived through
and I’m thankful my heart continues to beat its steady rhythm.
I marvel at its strength and resilience.

I feel the aching loneliness of solitude
and welcome its longing for another
because it reminds me of my capacity to love
which is as infinite as the stars and as deep as the ocean.
A rare gift indeed.

I plan my day,
my mind alight with thought and memory
imagination transporting me to far off lands
full of adventure and possibility.
I take it for granted when I should not.

I spend time with the divine
in quiet contemplation.
Connected through energy to all things,
my soul expanding in compassion and wisdom.
I am filled with both peace and joy.

I may not be wealthy in a material sense
but I am rich beyond my wildest dreams,
possess treasures more precious than any gem,
am abundant in all that money cannot buy.
And I remain forever grateful.