Evensong

By Linda Gamble

I am not a morning bird,
no melodious trilling escapes
my throat upon the dawn,
no gleeful twitter extolling 
the wonders of a new day.

I greet the glorious sun with a scowl 
through half-shuttered eyes, grunt 
replies to cheery good mornings,
stumble my way through breakfast and coffee.

Gradually the day opens its beauty 
and potential to me, the hum 
and drone of life. Busy in the hive, 
I take joy in accomplishing tasks, share
in the love of family and friends, delight 
in the melty chocolate of a warm cookie,
lift my face to the afternoon sun, marvel 
at the flight of a great heron.

And in the evening, I will sing—
Sing of God’s grace that brought me
through this day, his presence ever guiding, 
loving, sustaining, empowering.
Sing of His glory, the beauty of creation.
Sing with humble thanksgiving for my many blessings.
Sing of His power, and forgiveness.
And I will sleep secure in his mercy and love.

Linda Gamble is a retired reading specialist from New Jersey. Linda has published poems in both print and online journals, such as The Orchards, US 1 Worksheets, Right-Hand Pointing and has happily published her first poetry book, Meanderings at Kelsay Books  She has also published articles and instructional materials for the education market and is currently working on a middle grade novel.