When I Stand

When I stand outside 

the life I’ve chosen to live 

I see loneliness or a life

without meaning yet 

When I step inside the life 

I’ve chosen to live 

I feel fulfilled and

meaning is all around. 

When I stand outside the life 

I’ve chosen to live, I love the busyness of community 'til

I long for the quiet of home 

When I step inside the life 

I’ve chosen to live 

I sit down with pen and paper 

to frame the meaning of my heart.

When I stand outside the life 

I’ve chosen to live, 

my life is a joy 

with friends, with family.  

When I step inside the life 

I’ve chosen to live, 

I miss them all but am surrounded 

by the gift of their presence in my life.

“Even the longest journey must begin where you stand.”

~ Laozi, philosopher

(604 BC ~ 531 BC)