gladness and gratitude

THE ORANGE
by Wendy Cope

At lunchtime I bought a huge orange—
The size of it made us all laugh.
I peeled it and shared it with Robert and Dave—
They got quarters and I had a half.
And that orange, it made me so happy,
As ordinary things often do
Just lately. The shopping. A walk in the park.
This is peace and contentment. It’s new.
The rest of the day was quite easy.
I did all the jobs on my list
And enjoyed them and had some time over.
I love you. I’m glad I exist.

I realize we all get different things out of poetry. What I get from this one is how it pairs the banal of the everyday with the nearly sublime of being alive with a peaceful heart.

And in this second year of the pandemic, that’s just how I feel — full of gladness to be alive.

Glad to wake to the scent of the sea; to exchange written correspondence with family and friends; for quiet strolls in the neighbouring woodlands; for the pleasures of fine food; a piano to sit down to; a devoted dog at my feet; falling asleep to the fragrance of summer’s honeysuckle.

And, of course, I am always grateful for you. Thank you for stopping by and taking the time to read and share your thoughts as well. May your week ahead be filled with a list of gladnesses. I appreciate you. I’m glad I exist.