PROOF

I am drawn to stillness.

Despite weather and distance,

joy prevailed. I enter

a holy space.

— Drew Myron

These are tough days for thankfulness.

As I write, high winds are fueling multiple fires throughout the Columbia River Gorge (where I live). Twenty homes have already burned, and thousands more are threatened.

And it’s only June. And it’s not just here in the Pacific Northwest. And it’s not just fires.

We are living in extreme times.

Our right to peaceful protest has been twisted to appear violent and unlawful. Leaders are literally fanning the flames — by using military as political pawns, by using inflammatory language to ignite a fire — then stepping back to watch us burn.

It’s all so much.

I’m working hard to see beyond my frustration and fear. I’m working hard to find proof that joy prevails.

In that spirit, let’s share. Here's what I've found to appreciate this week:

• The 2025 Poetry Postcard Fest starts next month, and I’m gearing up! I’m making and collecting postcards, and getting excited to write and send short, spontaneous poems to complete strangers. Please join me!

• I read two great books this week: Stone Yard Devotional by Charlotte Wood, and Sad Tiger by Neige Sinno.

• Happy birthday — this blog is 17 years old! Born June 18, 2008, this space is almost an adult. I introduced the blog as “a quiet place to share a few notes” and it’s still true.

On this Thankful Thursday, I am thankful for you. For keeping me accountable, appreciative, and grateful for things big and small. Attention attracts gratitude, and gratitude expands joy, and my joy grows when shared with you.

Thanks for joining me in this dim room with a soft piano.

What are you thankful for today?

___

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