Most every work day for more than 11 years, I wrote a love note, poem or other inspirational thought, on a napkin – and tucked it in my husband, Marshal’s, lunch – a ritual of the heart. At the beginning of 2009, Marshal started typing them up. It became OUR ritual of the heart to share the Daily Napkin as a blog. Then, in October 2015, Marshal retired, so the whole dynamic changed. I took several months to re-evaluate and decide what I was going to do. The poetry of the napkin is now joined with my art and/or photography images. May you enjoy them. May they feed your spirit.
Porch Light
When the light fell on the porchAs twilight descendedAnd the birds all nestled downMuted colors and sharp shadowsSlowly transmuted into starkness………………At dawn, it is a softeningUntil the sunlight’s brillianceA slow awakeningUntil kissed by the warmthOf his...
Grooving
Within a few secondsthe groove beginsdancing or slinkingour choiceIn roundy roundand roundy round againbuilding a rhythm, a groove……………………………………………In the silenceI wipe the slate cleanBathing in the silenceawash in the sweet tearsof joyous angels gracePreparing to...
Open Arms
When the hair on my neckstands straightI open my armsshine the loveand breatheMmm… the sweetnessof Spirit flowing throughThen I look into the heart of that little one insideHow could you feelanything but lovefor this child?
Flickering Masterpieces
Flickering squirrel tail shadowsdanced across the window early mornShaking the edges of my attentionwaking my awareness to outsideSquirrel running back and forthscurrying and hidingon the fence railfrom two big blue jaysPecking at himhis tail a-flickeringall the...
Perennial Intentions
Like weeds, the new intentionssprouted and bolted upthirsting for the lightAnd in the droughtof daily humdrum brownedlaid over fallowChewed and turnedvisited by crittersof the Earthnew fodderfor a new crop of intentionsCultivated, watered, cared forricher, slower...
Natural Beauty
Sunlight sparklesoff the tiny ripplesAs I wade slowlyin the still and peacefulpond of forgivenessNo jewel existsmore preciousor more beauteousNo gracious giftmore treasuredHearts flutter like butterflies
Ode to My Toes
How about those toes?Once around the blockOr once around a lifetimeThey’ve helped me keep my balanceIn even the most unsettling times• • •A portrait of my toesI once portrayed in bluesLike Picasso or a kindergartnerIn oils on canvas• • •On tippy, running, relaxingOr...
Blessed Mud
Down in the valleythe small pool is hiddenfrom the sunThere, for blessed moments each day,The fireflies glow and the mosses know peaceAnd, the lotus opensin a burst of beautyToes sunk deepIn the murk and the mud
Tree Freeway
That same hidden branch thereThat in the winter shownSeemed not to fit, to be askewTraversing space whereNo other branches see fit toIt is the freeway rampThe well-used connectorFrom all directionsFor little squirrelWho sat contemplatingIn the sunlightFor a warm...
Simplicity
Simplicity…We can ask for simplicityAll of our needsAnd wants metIn a clear, simple wayAs we danceamong the starsWaving our armsin exultant celebrationEver hopeful, ever fullOf love and joy
In All Seriousness
Back in the routineOf day to day todayAs the waters riseAnd the bottom falls outAnd all the little fairiesAnd angels tap danceOn the head of a pinAnd here I amAgain and againLaughing to myselfAt my selfAnd my silly seriousness
Bright Dream
The real thingThe truth shining throughIs obvious to the centerWhere gut feelings are bornThat clear truthThat speaks of everythingSo apparent in anythingShines light on the darkest cornerThis bright dreamThat wakes upon its dreamingA beacon of hope’s...