Open your awareness to each day
Let morning light shine in your eyes
and grey clouds ease your gaze
Take in the sounds around you
birdsong, thunder in the hills, rushing water
Listen to the music of wind-blown leaves
Breathe fragrances of pine forest, ocean air
new-mown grass, pavement after rain
Inhale aromas of lilac, lavender, jasmine
Fill your mouth with delicious flavors
sweet berries, fresh-baked bread, dark chocolate
herbs and spices from around the globe
Feel the wind stroke your face, your hands
textures of angora, eiderdown, satin, velvet
polished stone, supple leather, skin on skin
With these senses, you are ready
to meet the marvels of the world
All you need do is pay attention
About the Author
Since 2012, Carla Manene Cooke has facilitated writing groups in and from her home in Northampton, Massachusetts. Her recent work has appeared in the Forbes Library’s virtual exhibits (“In This Together” and “Home”), Straw Dog Writers Guild's Pandemic Project, Silkworm 14: Rise, Persimmon Tree, and Meat for Tea. A longtime journal-keeper and wordsmith, she provides "a fresh eye" for other writers.
