The common life

I lead the common life
           I too am a result
of mixed blessings
           of wild gifts
and irresistible flaws
           I’m familiar with church steeples
and power plants
           and black lines on the horizon

I know who made me
           and for what purpose
and I prefer boots to shoes
           and yes I know which way
the ball bounces
           I’m conscious of the poetry
that I write and anxious
           not to waste my breath
Birthdays come and go
           but I remain
and I’m open to love
           always

John Lyons