Rise and Shine

Each day that

I open my eyes

and still

have the ability

to see the sun

to stand, to walk or run

to hear music

to sing or dance alone

another opportunity to be

who I want to be,

who I dream to be,

to do something differently,

follow another path,

make better choices,

spread joy

by simply being joyful

despite pain,

disappointment,

challenges,

anxiety,

unkindnesses,

cruelty -

is another day

to smile

because

I have

another chance

to be

to rejoice in what is

and what can be,

rather than crying

for what is

and what is not...yet.