Monday, November 30, 2020

Sharing Our Stories, #52Stories 46/52, and Poetry Friday (on Monday): Touched by Goodness

Is it possible to roll all these ways I love to write into one coherent post? Life has been unsettling for the past almost two weeks as I've prayed for my brother after his surgery the week before Thanksgiving. I've also asked that his wife Kathy receive the strength she so needs as the only family member allowed to see and support him during this time.

When I read Ruth's post, I was touched by the word "goodness" and wondered if we give goodness the recognition it deserves as we go about our daily lives. Even though Merriam-Webster is my go-to dictionary, it didn't fit the bill this time. I kept looking until I found the definition of goodness I wanted at dictionary.com:

Goodness - 

5. the best part of anything; essence; strength.

 

 Goodness

An underrated quality in today's world,

but always there if we let ourselves

slow down enough to feel its touch.

It's in the soft curls of a freshly bathed grandson's hair.

The licking of the frothy whipped cream from the beaters

with a kiss delivered by a much loved mother.

The intense study of Lego instructions by three males 

seated on the floor, assisting in the construction of Mater.

The toddler rocking in a chair given to my grands by a dear friend,

the walk to a nearby school ground for outside play,

the gathering 'round of our small bubble 

 to watch the carving of the turkey breast.

The early morning snuggles of grandfather and grandson

in the rocker as they head to Mars with Miss Pickerell.

The careful sprinkling of sugar cookie turkeys,

and remembrance of my mother 

sharing turkey cookies with my own littles.

In the midst of 2020 chaos and confusion,

goodness is still here,

reaching out to touch us 

with its essence and strength.

 - Ramona Behnke

 

To savor the magic of story, link your post at Sharing Our Stories.

#52Stories is my attempt to write 52 stories from my life during the year 2020. At least one story a week, in no particular order, to remember and document some of the memories and moments of my life.

I'm too late to add my link for Poetry Friday at Carol's Corner, but you should head over to her post to enjoy poetry goodness galore.

7 comments:

  1. "It's in the soft curls of a freshly bathed grandson's hair" - my favourite image in your beautiful goodness list.

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  2. What beauty, wonder & yes, goodness captured in this poem! Thank you! I have missed your poetry. Thank you so much for sharing your talents.

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    1. Hi Sara!
      I know we've never met, but I feel like I know you through Ramona. You have one of the best momma's in the world...and I have a feeling you are following in her footsteps with your own momma-heart. Maybe you want to write with us, too?
      Ruth

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  3. That definition of goodness is perfect. I love the way that word feels. The images in your poem are lovely. Thank you for sharing this!

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  4. favorite description: soft curls of a freshly bathed grandson's hair... I barely could read, because Jack's hair is too far away from me right now. It is good to be back sweet Ramona

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  5. Ramona,
    I've read this a few times from the Wordpress app on my phone. I was drawn to it. I've been praying for goodness to be abundant in my life. As you know, it's a fruit of the Spirit, so I've been considering how to cultivate the conditions necessary for it to grow. Your poem touched me and guided me. Thank you.
    Hugs,
    Ruth

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  6. Oh Ramona, I have never looked at the definition of goodness before. I so loved reading it. Made the word even more beautiful. And your poem is so heart-warming and inspiring.

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