I could have happened a billion different ways,
but I happened just one way.
One out of an infinite number of stories,
my story unfolded.
Now I pause in the middle of my book.
Understanding, as I didn’t before,
my power in authoring what is left.
Awed by the journey, the near misses, grieved losses,
the fight that has returned within.
Grateful for wanting to be at this party called life.
Many precious minutes
are not gaurenteed.
Savoring this very one.
By Ali Grimshaw
One day I finally knew that I could swim
in the blue of the sky.
That I was as strong as I said I was.
That my fears were teachers made just for me.
That there would always be cracks to slip through
and times of trembling.
Then I stood next to the lake,
a mirror of the blue sky,
and dove into its
reflection.
By Ali Grimshaw
Rain is on our lips,
down the path we run.
Through puddles,
Not around.
Mud and moss.
Wind whipped hair.
Years of words shared between breaths of air.
Creek waters rolling by.
Tears and questions woven into the miles.
Over roots, up hills.
Between the trees we run.
Thoughts uttered within the flow of movement.
Conversations not possible in stillness.
By Ali Grimshaw
Will you be there when I arrive?
Will you be able to set the noise aside?
Will you listen behind and underneath my words?
Will you give your whole being to what I am telling you?
Will you notice what I don’t say?
Will you stay during the silences?
Will I unlock my voice this time to say
what I have not yet said to myself?
Holding my breath.
I wait for you to
meet my
eyes.
By Ali Grimshaw
There, but not seen,
playing the game of smile and nod
waiting for a turn to speak.
Am I really here?
Maybe they can’t see me.
Maybe I have gone.
Yet the long shadow on the grass
is evidence that I remain.
Remembering my voice
I step away to find another shadow
on the edge of all that is green.
I find another who is choosing listening
even though there is so much to say.
Together we hear each other
whilst standing in silence.
By Ali Grimshaw
He is me.
And
We are them.
Only our thoughts
Separate us.
Love alive inside each
ls the same.
By Ali Grimshaw
Only a slice of light.
Shining on the horizon.
Focus your eyes upon it and rise.
Let the slight glow seep inside.
It will be enough for this day.
Minute long hugs,
independent living,
seat belts,
non-toxic cleaners,
lifelong promises,
vitamins,
holding your tongue,
clean water,
freedom of speech,
being sheltered,
money in the bank,
airport security,
homeowners insurance,
a gun,
love?
By Ali Grimshaw
flashlight batteries - Ali Grimshaw 