(Inspired by Nick Flynn’s poem “ If This is Your Final Destination.)
This is not my final destination.
I’m called to a time of miracles and introspection,
my ordinary “no news is good news” life
turned upside down.
Words cause fear & hugs & pitying looks.
A student hands me a gift bag full of smelly lotions and
body wash, Girl Scout cookies.
Some of my students even seem to
appreciate me more —
asking my favorites in music,
looking happy to see me.
But this is not my final destination.
It will change again.
Human beings can get used to anything.
Today, I’ll have lunch with a friend,
pick up chapter 2 on a novel,
visit a new Publix store.
I will contemplate how life
changes and moves on into
new routines.
Honestly, I’m better for it.
Always so much to learn.
Still so far to go.
I watched my friend sink peacefully into the beauty of the marina backdrop. Her smile was between chapter one and the end. Yet it wasn't the end. It was the continuation of easy conversation and the intention of enjoying each other's company again, soon.
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