i hope my words are strange and wondrous,

like kisses that quiet all things superfluous,

so that we can all stop and

listen

little ones, big ones,

noisy ones, quiet ones,

cute ones, challenging ones

and i count them all as signs of being blessed.

choosing to carve themselves specific places in my heart.

settling in the empty spaces,

like a soft breeze tired from traveling

so it sits, and expands,

breathing a quiet peace through the raw cracks.

the best have been the many new you's i never expected to meet.

the best have been the moments of absolute perfection amidst the pain.

the best has been that all these presents,

they are making the future better,

always.