Stalling (and #3)...

What’s the hold up?  I am much more hesitant than I used to be about posting first drafts.  I think it’s because first drafts can really suck. So why would I, one who cares about words and the combination thereof, put first draft drivel out for all to see?  Maybe I spoke too soon about my participation in this year’s NPM challenge.  I’m trying to see it as a sign of growth, though – that I am becoming more discerning and honest and objective about my work – when I can read something newly written and say, “Wow, that’s bad.”

That being said, here's another one - probably not so great in its current form, but I'm not apologizing.

"The Missionaries Are Coming"

My soul isn’t lost
I know just where it is.
But perhaps I can help you find
what a pure smile looks like,
how to get along with very little
and God.
The God that you read about,
who only visits you on Sundays,
I will show you Him in the waters.
He whispers to me on walks to the market.
He is keeping my grandmother alive
till she’s taught me all I need to know.
God is with everyone here—
maybe it’s because our houses
have no windows and we keep our doors open.
He can come and go as He pleases.
In return, He sustains us
by your visits, between your visits and long after you've gone.
So, welcome, nice to see you again.
But my soul isn’t lost
I know right where it is.

Ramadan Mubarak

The Islamic month of fasting began last night at sundown.

It makes me feel especially connected to Muslims across the world.

And I think the President feels connected too. Very cool.

calling all positivity!

it's a new dawn. it's a new day, and a new life for me...and i'm feeling good! (shout out to maisha) . maybe it's being "done" with course work or the warm weather, but i feel like good things are about to happen - granted good things are always happening, we are just too self-absorbed to see it sometimes, so maybe the better question is where have i been? i'm excited about life, student loans and all (woah there, rese, don't get overzealous). i do not desire to become so indoctrinated into the grown-up world that i cease to believe in the magical, in the innocence, in the wonder that is God all around. i want to feel all of life, pain and pleasure - balance is the thing. i wrote this poem for one of my special sunshine sisters, and i hope to live it to the fullest of my being:

poet
intelligent, sensitive
observing, understanding, creating
sees the beautiful
decypherer

thank you, Creator for the days when i feel you most. this is one of those days. may i "release the good" on everyone i encounter.

peace, tmL