Quiet Reach

It is a loud world, full of loud people
speaking often loud words with loud voices.

And then there is you.

Like a gentle breeze easing a sharp current
you soften all that is harsh, bitter, brittle.
A spirit that bends with all the blows
that life brings, you quiet even silence
with your eyes , your smile, your hands
that reach beyond all doubt, all pain.

Words have to whisper to hear when
your wisdom speaks, so still, so strong.

Around you, a soul finds its peace,
and for those of us who hear your muted call,
the heart finds its measure of courage,
its breadth of love.

Trudi Ralston.
January 2nd, 2016.
For my friend of 21 years,
for Diane Baldwin.