There is a lightness in my heart this morning

and hope, like new blossoms, is budding.

Yesterday the wind blew out the old

and the sun welcomed the new.

Leaders from opposing sides gathered,

the Constitution held,

a young woman spoke poetic truth,

and America, although unfinished, is

once again strong.

I hope for our country

to once more be a beacon

where diversity is celebrated,

discourse is civil, and

broken relationships repaired.

A place where all creation

is seen as precious,

hearts are open,

equity established,

past wrongs addressed,

and truth is spoken.

I hope for a world

where together we win

the war on COVID 19,

where ALL children

are healthy and safe

and thrive and grow

into world citizens

enriched by differences

and committed to

the preciousness of

the earth, the air, and

every human being.