JOY

by Valerie Denay Staton

Joy…

A sunset, a sunrise, a loved one’s image before my eyes. The sound of nature in the morn. Dancing with my love from dusk to dawn.

Sounds of nature – the chirps and tweets. A smile and “hello” from people I meet. The recognition of momentous events. Receipt of correspondence a loved one sent.

Pursuit of desires and of one’s dreams. A walk with nature beside burbling streams. Saying “I love you” and getting the same reply. Being with the one I love until the day I die.

Holding onto a loved one’s hand. Receiving compliments instead of reprimands. Witnessing good things happening to others. Spending time with parents, sisters, and brothers.

Daily conversations with the one who created me. Thanking Him for love, life, and liberty. Just a few things I am joyful for…I will stop right here, for there are so many more!

***Published in my book “Odes of Praise: A Collection of Christian Poetry” in December 2022.