Hope comes in and joy follows softly.
Hope is the one opening the door
to the house on the hill
with its lights shining.
Hope is the guide that goes looking
in the chill of twilight
for the last weary travelers on the road.
Hope is the lightness of body
when our loads are laid down
and we can stand again, breathing.
Hope is the fire and sustenance
to which our host beckons us,
the comfort of company.
And Hope is the change after sleep
when the new sun arrives,
lights the edge of the curtains.
Hope is the prelude to joy and peace,
the one who walks at our behind
sorting the welcoming party,
and who when we falter urges,
‘not long now to the next hill’.
And Hope, knowing the way,
tells Joy up ahead,
‘Don’t worry, we are catching up,
we’ll all soon be there’ –
to where Peace,
with her candle in the window,
has made up the beds.
Ana Lisa de Jong
Living Tree Poetry
February 2021
Living Tree Poetry 
So very beautiful, Ana Lisa. Love to you, dear woman. xo
Life is not a straight lineit’s a downpour of gifts, please -hold out your hand
LikeLike
Yes, thanks for writing about the gifts with me! xx
LikeLike
A lovely description…makes me so thankful for all these preparations and for your words that are like sturdy nets catching the truth and beauty of observations. Keep casting please.
LikeLike
Ah, these are such encouraging words to me Shelly. You bless me greatly!
LikeLike
Such a beautiful reflection, dear Ana 💚 The following lines made my heart smile widely as the poem concluded:
And Hope, knowing the way,
tells Joy up ahead,
‘Don’t worry, we are catching up,
we’ll all soon be there’ –
to where Peace,
with her candle in the window,
has made up the beds.
LikeLike
Thank you Michael. It warms my heart to think of you smiling widely. Life seems to be turning a corner of renewal for you and I am pleased.
LikeLiked by 1 person