I wrote the first drafts of this poem as we ended 2019 – before the pandemic shifted priorities for all of us, but after a cumulative onslaught of “bad news” for our environment: raging forest fires, drought, continued plundering of coal and oil reserves, etc. My original title, in fact, was “Last Days.” But ultimately I wanted this poem to speak to our need for a “reset” and my belief that we can still do so much better for the planet. I wanted to convey a sense of hope that would connect us all. Ironically, within a few weeks the world was hit with the reality that we could no longer physically connect through hugs. This reality made the last stanza even more poignant for me.
Although health issues prevent me from visiting Shadowcliff in person these days – I can still “hug” all the wonderful memories of so many decades. This poem was one of several as part of a “Poetry Walk” in Overland Park,KS this past April. I’m so glad it has found a new outdoor home in Judith’s garden!
Reset installed in Judith’s Garden
