Inner Journey – a poem by HM Ayres

Inner Journey

Please bring strange things*
on this venture into new territory.

My reflection in the window startles me.
I don’t like what I see.

I have never felt this way before.
I am uncertain what I need.

If it's true what they say,
please bring love, all you have.

Hold me in your heart
through the long dark days.

Point out a blue sky
on a crisp cold day.

Send me a tiny, brightly colored bird
despite the chill in the air.

In the depths of despair
gratitude always helps.

Leave your judgment behind.
Accept me, as I am.

Broken, but healing.
Not the best company.

Laughter lightens every load.
Every smile soothes.

Visit me in my grief.
Your friendship brings me comfort .



*From Initiation Song from the Finders Lodge, Ursula LeGuinn 

HM Ayres grew up in Northern New Jersey. She retired and moved to Cape Cod, MA in 2021 after a 43 year career in college student affairs administration. Since retiring Helen has been devoting her time to writing poetry, exploring the Cape conservation areas, bike paths, waterways and beaches and is engaged in several social justice and community volunteer efforts.