The Long Walk Home

                                                  

I measure the distance

By cracks in the sidewalk

The number of houses

The minute hand on my watch

The worn out soles of my ten dollar sneakers

Or the puffy white clouds that pass me by

The ocean of space in the deep blue sky

The notes of the songs that play in my ears

These are the landmarks that I've seen though the years

But not the real markers that guide my way

These are much deeper - not of water and clay

These are the yearnings that I feel in my heart

Seeking some solace and to make a new start

“Dreams and schemes and Circus Crowds”

My inner spirit cries aloud

For meaning and purpose – just why and how?

Now I turn the corner and what do I see

The end of my journey just ahead down the street

Decisions I make for today or tomorrow

May well provide me with great joy or some sorrow

So I watch my feet as they step along

Then look up at the trees as I hear a new song

Not made of notes or rhythms or chords

But angelic voices coming straight from the Lord

Guiding my steps as I find a new way

Urging me onward to greet the new day

Though I may no longer   measure each stride

I just picture the ocean and the roaring tide

For the inner journey is not on the ground

But deep in my soul where true life is found

So now I’m nearing my welcoming door

And the long walk home has been traveled once more.

Larry Hosack  October 2013