For Nana Barbara
She always stops at streams
Where sticks make waters slow
To gently free each pent up pool
And watch the river flow
The helping makes her happy
A humble place to start
To live a fairly useful life
She always does her part
But pools of sorrow rise
Should purpose cease to be
The autumn leaves of loneliness
That fall from failing trees
The river swells uncertainly
Awash in doubts and fears
A life with nowhere left to go
The flood of all these years
Then wanders home a little girl
Where sticks make waters slow
To gently free this pent up pool
And watch the river flow
Rest In Peace
Happiness Always
pct
Contemplating the Journey of Life and the Ebb and Flow of Emotions
In this poetic narrative, the imagery of a girl stopping at streams to clear the sticks that impede the flow of water serves as a profound metaphor for life and the emotional journey within. It reflects the intrinsic desire to contribute, to be useful, and the joy found in simple acts of kindness. Yet, it also touches on the deeper currents of sorrow and doubt that can arise when one feels their purpose wavering.
The Joy of Contribution and the Simplicity of Purpose
The act of freeing pent-up pools and watching the river flow symbolizes the satisfaction derived from helping, from making even a small difference in the world. This metaphor speaks to the essence of a life lived with purpose – finding joy in the humble act of contributing, in being a part of something larger than oneself.
The Pools of Sorrow and the Quest for Meaning
However, this poem also delves into the darker waters of the human experience. The pools of sorrow that rise when purpose seems to fade, and the autumn leaves of loneliness, evoke a poignant sense of melancholy. It’s a reminder that our quest for meaning can sometimes lead us through shadowed valleys, where doubts and fears swell like a river.
Navigating the Uncertainties of Life
The imagery of the river swelling uncertainly, awash in doubts and fears, reflects the turbulent times when life feels directionless, when the flood of years seems overwhelming. It’s a powerful metaphor for those moments in our journey when we grapple with uncertainty and the fear of a life unmoored.
Returning to the Source: The Cycle of Renewal
Ultimately, the poem circles back to the image of the girl returning home, to the streams where she finds purpose in her simple, yet meaningful actions. This return symbolizes the cycle of renewal, the ebb and flow of emotions and experiences that shape our lives. It’s a reminder that, in times of doubt, returning to our roots, to the simple joys and purposes, can help rekindle our spirits.
Summary
We explore the journey of life and emotions through the metaphor of a girl clearing streams, symbolizing the joy of contribution and the simplicity of purpose. We reflect on the pools of sorrow and the uncertainty that arises when purpose wanes, and how returning to our roots can renew our spirits.
Glossarium
- Cycle of Renewal: The ongoing process of experiencing and overcoming emotional highs and lows.
- Ebb and Flow of Emotions: The fluctuating feelings and experiences that define our journey.
- Returning to the Source: The act of revisiting our fundamental joys and purposes for renewal.
“In three words I can sum up everything I’ve learned about life: it goes on.” – Robert Frost
In the tapestry of time, where streams of life entwine,
A girl clears the waters, in a dance divine.
Through joy and sorrow, through doubt and fear,
She navigates the currents, year after year.
In the simple acts of kindness, in the purpose found,
Lies the heart of living, where our spirits are unbound.
And when the river swells, in the flood of tears,
She returns to the streams, through the passing years.
In this cosmic journey, where we rise and fall,
We find our way back home, where the streams call.
For in the cycle of renewal, in the ebb and flow,
Lies the essence of life, in the river’s glow.
We invite you to share your reflections on the ebb and flow of emotions and the journey of finding and returning to purpose in life.
Leave a Reply