The whole concept of home is a funny one isn’t it? Is it where you grew up? Where you’ve lived for at least 10 years? Where you have the best memories? Where your family is? I’ve had to work hard to make our new location “home” and we’ve made such a good go of it. But, I’ve gotta be honest, home for me will always include palm trees and salt water.
This poem is something I wrote during our first year living in Philadelphia when I was working so hard to be obedient to the clear call of God to be here, and remain open to the possibilities of this new place. My heart and memories were having a hard time getting the memo.
A Love Letter Home
By Kate Thompson
Muted and unsteady, uncertain, in a fog.
Need to write it down
To clear the inner dialogue.
A while now since I’ve seen you, still feel the aftershock.
Hands once open and willing,
Now fight to curl and lock.
I want to gift this new season legs to grow and roam,
But you’re my known and my safe place,
My first love and my home.
My heart beats the rhythm of your waves upon the shore;
Sometimes pounding, sometimes whispering,
Consistent evermore.
My tongue’s a greedy glutton for your taste and your sweet smell;
Fresh mango, salty kisses,
Frangipani, acai wishes.
My face rises up to meet your warm and early rays
Reading the message of your breezes
Before I start my day.
My fingers trail through your sand; a sieve of time and space.
Meditating, pondering,
Reminding me of my place.
My feet once bare and summer tough, grew roots and found their wings;
Sinking down to meet you
I let the ministering begin.
My shoulders bearing evidence of sea’s salty residue
The keepsake of a moment
I stopped and played a few.
My ears attune the dialect of an overrated “r”,
To seagulls squawking, palm fronds chattering,
Snags sizzlin’ from afar.
My veins run with the knowledge of my people and my place;
Clogged now with confusion,
Will I find my new home base?
Lord you called me out and I willingly obeyed.
Don’t want to undermine you
And the power you’ve displayed.
Open my eyes, lift the veil, remove the fear I pray.
Expand my heart to boldly step
Where your Spirit leads the way.
One Response
Good luck!