Life at Midlife

I am no longer waiting for a special occasion; 

I burn the best candles on ordinary days.

I am no longer waiting for the house to be clean; 

I fill it with people who understand that even dust is sacred.

I am no longer waiting for everyone to understand me; 

It’s just not their task.

I am no longer waiting for the perfect children; 

my children have their own names that burn as brightly as any star.

I am no longer waiting for the other shoe to drop; 

It already did, and I survived.

I am no longer waiting for the time to be right; 

the time is always now.

I am no longer waiting for the mate who will complete me;

 I am grateful to be so warmly, tenderly held.

I am no longer waiting for a quiet moment; 

my heart can be stilled whenever it is called.

I am no longer waiting for the world to be at peace;

I unclench my grasp and breathe peace in and out.

I am no longer waiting to do something great; 

being awake to carry my grain of sand is enough.

I am no longer waiting to be recognized; 

I know that I dance in a holy circle.

I am no longer waiting for forgiveness.

I believe, I believe.

(Mary Anne Perrone)