ABPA - Australian Bush Poets Association

COUNTING BLESSINGS … © Maureen Clifford The #ScribblyBarkPoet


It’s been a really rotten year as most of my friends know -
the death of two I loved the most struck me down, bought me low,
and giving in to grief was easy – not so unexpected
but truth to tell that made things worse – made me feel disconnected.
There’s still much to be thankful for, once all the tears have dried,
for memories will never leave - I hope they will abide.
Now every day’s a blessing, or am I just more aware
of the need to count the roses and not give in to despair ?

I’m thankful for my humble home, the food upon my table,
for caring friends and family and health that makes me able
to retain some independence – a degree of dignity –
the ability to still connect with synchronicity.

To manage my affairs at home, to make the columns tally.
To live within my budget, to have not yet gone doolally.
Thankfully I can drive my car, though limited my trips -
this offers me autonomy and I have come to grips
with the need to be more cautious in all the things I do,
to not overexert myself, but take it steady through
the daily tasks that must be done – and if I need to – rest.
Tomorrow is another day. Once can but do their best

I’m more mindful of others thoughts - or at least try to be.
For they may see the picture somewhat differently from me.
So, there’s different perspectives – and different thresholds of pain;
but my hope is that we all get through and embrace joy again.

I count my blessings not my losses, for what’s done can’t be reversed.
Whilst every day’s a brand-new act for which I’m unrehearsed
So, if there are some stumbles, does it matter? Not a jot.
I take the time to pause, and breathe, give thanks for what I’ve got.
There is no right or wrong of course, nor a signposted path
and sometimes dark clouds hover and it’s very hard to laugh,
but if we should choose happiness and put a smile in place
the sadness will retreat a bit as smiles light up our face.

There are roses for the smelling, and a newborn babies smile,
places to see I haven’t been and life is still worthwhile.
Everyday may not be perfect, and there’ll be more storms to weather ….
Despite that life's still beautiful – more so when shared together.

5.12.2024

Well done Maureen, you have summed it up nicely!
As Henry said in his poem 'When Your Pants Begin To Go': 'Keep your smile in working order, for the better days to come!'
Enjoyed the read, thank you.
Cheers
Ron.

Hi Mauree
I guess sadness become part of all out lives at times, and loosing loved ones takes some getting over.
leaving us shattered for a time at least, but as you say, you have to somehow find the strength to once again, stop and smell the roses.
Which is easier said than done.

Terry

What wonderful, positive thoughts you have written here, Maureen. Gratitude is such an important feeling to focus on, even when we go through such terrible times. Every day we have is indeed a blessing and a gift, and you have summed this up beautifully.

Beautifully said, Maureen.

Thinking of you and wishing you strength and peace as we start a new year.

Cheers
Shelley