A birthday list of friends,
To remind they are special.

A vegetable garden to tend,
Vine ripe summer tomatoes and cucumbers.

A woman to love and be my teacher,
And share the wonder of life with her.

Waking up outside camping,
With only the sounds of nature.

A creative project anticipated,
And losing myself in the task.

An intentional act of kindness,
Given with confident humility.

Slowly petting the dog or cat,
Seeing how they enjoy the moment.

Making a meal for someone I love,
And having them enjoy it with me.

Reading a good book or listening to a good tape,
And having my perspective broaden.

Being grateful for what is,
And finding miracles everywhere.

The recognition that the practice of love stretches the mind,
Just as the practice of yoga stretches the body.

The even rush of water along my body,
As I find a comfortable pace swimming.

The surprises of generous hearts,
Who reach out and touch mine.

The mature green grass with sideways cut lines,
And the new bright thin grass as fine as hair.

The earth tone colors of the wire-cut bricks,
The amazingly beautiful transformation in a bud to flower to fruit.

The rush of understanding in daily meditation,
Always there for me when I take the time.

To find my truth inside, and live knowing that in all context,
My self is a separate precious spirit to be cared for and loved.

To see with open eyes, hear with listening ear,
And give the gift of who I am.

– Brenneman T. February 13, 2002
Some of Many Random Joys LB

A birthday list of friends,
To remind they are special.

A vegetable garden to tend,
Vine ripe summer tomatoes and cucumbers.

A woman to love and be my teacher,
And share the wonder of life with her.

Waking up outside camping,
With only the sounds of nature.

A creative project anticipated,
And losing myself in the task.

An intentional act of kindness,
Given with confident humility.

Slowly petting the dog or cat,
Seeing how they enjoy the moment.

Making a meal for someone I love,
And having them enjoy it with me.

Reading a good book or listening to a good tape,
And having my perspective broaden.

Being grateful for what is,
And finding miracles everywhere.

The recognition that the practice of love stretches the mind,
Just as the practice of yoga stretches the body.

The even rush of water along my body,
As I find a comfortable pace swimming.

The surprises of generous hearts,
Who reach out and touch mine.

The mature green grass with sideways cut lines,
And the new bright thin grass as fine as hair.

The earth tone colors of the wire-cut bricks,
The amazingly beautiful transformation in a bud to flower to fruit.

The rush of understanding in daily meditation,
Always there for me when I take the time.

To find my truth inside, and live knowing that in all context,
My self is a separate precious spirit to be cared for and loved.

To see with open eyes, hear with listening ear,
And give the gift of who I am.