A Tale of Horizons...a prelude on 2 poems

Ordinary life has its horizon. A horizon makes visible, but it also conceals. Clearly visible is the day's routine with its familiar sounds, from the breakfast table to turning out the lights. Years are spent on the job. Our awareness switches from task to task, focussed on deadlines, tranquilized by busyness.

Sometimes the situation changes abruptly. In the aftermath, we scramble to make sense. Perhaps the sufferings of others afflicts us. Looking back, we realize how the crisis brought clarification. What was concealed now shows itself. Eyes once gripped by daily concerns return to the present.

The fool thinks he is the job, the exam grades, the unfinished essay, the investment portfolio, the half-completed resume. Conversation can wait; prayer doesn't happen; he writes a cheque, but has no time to serve. The fool forgets. God sends wake-up calls. From disaster may come gratitude and attention. What really matters is already present. We just forget.

jeanne schuler