For Marge's 85th, for Georgianna, for Barbara, for all our Sisters on the Journey--past, present, future... SISTERS To Earth's (Our/My) Sisters-- Who~ bravely dance their daily paces, shine extraordinary light on ordinary places, where others faint or fear to tread, where laughter is born and tears are shed. Who~ steadfast, courageously with bolding care encourage unheard voices to dare, to share-- whose own struggling and vulnerability forge the way for new beginnings and brighter days; Who~ spirited, passionate, seized by wonder endure times and worlds so torn asunder-- Daughters of the Universe, Mothers of Earth, Midwives of Vision contracting to birth; Who~Friend of the forgotten, Madonna of the Trail league so the beleaguered cannot fail-- builder of community, hub of life, Heart of compassion, mind of delight; Who~creative, innovative, for justice, for peace, no shrinking violet: advocate for the least-- doormat for none, servant to All, risking, responding to Mystery's Call; Who~teacher, mentor, pioneer and guide to children who trust and adults who confide-- focus and frame Reality's Face, girded with humor, gratitude and grace; Who~strong in weakness, discerning need, choose to embrace the necessary deed-- unknowing, uncertain where that path leads, release gifts of healing, hope and possibility; Who~relentless, persistent, not seeking fame, through weariness or suffering, not desiring fortune's claim, charm and disarm obstacles' wedge, chiseling, expanding evolutionary edge. Child of sisters past, Grandmother of sisters to come, Link incredible sacrifice, bequeath unconditional love-- Wisdom of the stewing Cosmos, gentleness of the cooing dove, Incarnation, protector, celebrant of Creation's Covenant. To Earth's Sisters (Our/My) Sisters, Exemplars of Mystery, Creation celebrates You as you BE with BEING itself in history. Namaste Ho Carleton and Ellie Stock