“It’s said that life is what happens while making other plans yet some of us were born to plan and with training we learn to make more than one: we are taught to make backup plans.

Why so many plans when life surprises? Why be prepared for any contingency?

When there’s so little we can control, is it possible to remain calm amidst emergency?

Oh, help us be the peace to support others. Help us be a way station in each storm. May we reveal the wisdom that supports us. May we reflect the sun that keeps us warm.”

NATURAL BEAUTY AND OTHER POEMS, p.51