Pigtailed journey

Summer, pigtails, backyard basketball, laughter

Mom, I can’t move.

Ambulance.

Doctor says what is this that renders a strong pigtailed girl immobile?

Months. Suffering. Prayers.

Recovering.

Whell chaired sixth grade,

they call me “Cruisin’ Susan.”

Learning to walk, such a triumph it takes my breath away.

Walks in wood hand in hand with Dad.

Mom always with me. She says:

“I knew the mountains would make you well.”

I snap my fingers and say life is precious, this second, it will never come again.

A year passes. Doctor phone, test confirmed: new disease, Lyme.

Prognosis unknown.

I know what it is to summer. I choose to live.

Seasons fly: athletics, boyfriends, college pranks, marriage.

This journey shapes me like the Potter shapes Her work of art.

I am a person of healing, hope.

I lead. I bring together.

I listen. I provide a sacred space.

I refuel in silence, taste of dew berries, touch of a newborn lamb,

wind in meadow, walks in woods

My beautiful pigtailed girls a miracle in life they are to me.

Laughter, creek races, how was your day at school, bedtime snuggles.

I live, I love life. No regrets.

These seconds, are precious. They never come again.