This One Thing

There is something about standing
next to death
that can clear the vision for a moment.

Each time I quiet myself and stand
near this dark unknown,
a small light seems to shine.

This time, as my heart stood in sorrowed vigil,
I was given glimpses of the sacred honor
it is to be invited to live love—here, now.

I felt the weight of beauty embedded
in every loving glance, every act of kindness,
every self-giving service for each other.

I saw the wonder it is to be given the opportunity
to learn to love family, friends, neighbor, stranger
with an open, nonjudgmental heart.

I stood, awed by the calling to this labor of love,
even though I fail and fall and pray for help
from the One whose very name is Love—

the One who is gentle, humble, intimately present,
patient, kind, joyfully self-giving,
ever respecting, merciful, forgiving Love.

I ask, now, with fresh knowing, that this One
would grant me grace to learn and live this one thing—
and to know it as everything.