And Yet

The tea kettle confirmed everything.
Lifting it with two aching arms,
two trembling hands,
pouring hot water over tea leaves—
now a dangerous act.

A cherished morning ritual,
sustained for decades.
Another loss?
Maybe.

Something falls to the floor.
I can no longer bend to pick it up.
Later, perhaps, when my body warms.

Four-mile daily walks; now one-quarter mile.
Rest is needed before going further.

Those who know do not.
They complete testing rituals;
scratch their heads.
A rapid onset of age in mere months,
or something more?

I smile a half-smile.

Yes, there is pain.
But is there suffering?

Aging gives me time and grace—
a measured pace to walk
with the God I choose.

A new covenant is shaped
with mind, body, and spirit.

Attention must be paid!

listen to birdsong;
it changes throughout the day.

see the sky—a pas de deux
between clouds and sun.

rejoice in the hues of sunrise and sunset.

seek to hear messengers in the winds:
watch leaves flutter,
or trees bow low.

oh, my favorites are morning mists,
wraithlike, or a benevolent presence.

yes, yes, leaves are tenderly burdened by dew.
yet one drop holds the entire sky!

Age sits on my shoulders—
my autumn is here.

Did I truly think it would pass me by?

My heart knew.
Now I do, too.

This is a new life dance.
And I rejoice.

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About the Art

Title: ‘Attention Must Be Paid’
©️ 2026
Artist: Lee Anne Morgan