THE CIRCLES OF LIFE

Have you ever read a book to a child, perhaps before he or she takes a nap?

He picks out a book, brings it to you, then climbs upon your lap.

 

With your arms outstretched holding the book and your child safe and warm

You realize at that moment a perfect circle has formed.

 

A circle so intimate that for a short time no one else dare enter

For it is you who forms the circle with your child in the center. 

 

If our lives have been blessed we have all been the center of a circle just like this

It usually ends with a sigh and a smile...perhaps a little kiss.

 

Soon that child gets too large for our laps as they grow to be a woman or a man

And as parents and grandparents we find ourselves searching for circles wherever we can.

 

There are moments around the dinner table when you smile because you’re aware

As you scan from face to face that the circle you search for is there.

 

There are moments around a campfire where laughter is the norm

While kneeling down toasting a marshmallow you feel the warmth of that circle form.

 

You find these circles in instants, you never know where they might be.

You try to capture them inside your heart and imprint them on your memory.

 

How many circles have formed in your life? How many in your life can you see?

For something magical happens within these circles of friends and family.

 

What got me to thinking about circles? What sent this poem on it’s way?

Is that our oldest grandson, Damien, turns 17 today.

 

I wonder if he remembers the circles we formed while he sat upon my knee

And wherever he goes I hope he knows he can always circle back to me.

 

Yes, that is the beauty of the circles we create amidst family and friends

Once they’re formed, they are unbreakable...for a circle never ends.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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