On a Nearby Power Line
Expect nothing. Live frugally on surprise. —Alice Walker
Perhaps the unforeseen nod appears as a blue ribbon
presented to the best cross-stitch at a county fair
or a one-hundred-dollar payout after the purchase
of a two-dollar lottery ticket,
or even a first-place award given to the standout poem
in a statewide poetry contest.
Whatever the amazement,
a sense of elation rushes through the body,
akin to a shift in weather.
As if an updraft on litterfall,
the feeling of exhilaration expands outward.
Once, my cousin, Katie,
experienced prize-winning success on national television.
A chain reaction of joy occurred during the game show
and within the family.
Like the thrill of observing dominoes as they tap one another
then drop into the ecstasy of effect,
why not celebrate the blessings of everyone?
Gathering exuberance from the world’s wellspring
can free the tension of expectancy.
Why not live without expectation?
Ease can replace the nature of anticipation.
How does the frugal surprise arrive as the unexpected gift?
Yesterday, a Cooper’s hawk landed on a nearby power line.
I got a good look.
Jeannie E. Roberts is an artist and the author of several books, including her most recent title The Ethereal Effect – A Collection of Villanelles (Kelsay Books, 2022). On a Clear Night, I Can Hear My Body Sing is forthcoming from Kelsay Books in 2025. She serves as a poetry editor for the online literary magazine Halfway Down the Stairs, is an Eric Hoffer and a multiple Best of the Net award nominee. She finds joy spending time outdoors and with loved ones.
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