gnarled and knotted over time
age and experience entwine
embracing imperfections
knowing life is a challenge
we mellow over time
so light and dark entwine
nobody is perfect
yet we rise to the challenge
nature captures our turmoil
mirrors it back
but we are survivors
hope and love never lack
life is treasures and turmoil
but when we have each others back
we can thrive rather than just survive
gratitude keeps us on track!
d’Verse, open link night, Grace
A great poem Kate! Good words of wisdom!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Enjoyable, truthful and so lovely.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautifully penned – life’s reality!
LikeLiked by 1 person
A fantastic poem and message.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Gnarled and mellowed sounds a bit like me lol
LikeLiked by 1 person
Gratitude and also attitude, Kate. A very nice poem.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Words to live by! We do need love and hope if we are to not just survive but to thrive!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Awesome and gratitude always keeps us all on our backs together happy and joyful. Lovely poem on gnarled, Kate and the picture was captured very well
LikeLiked by 1 person
This one is probably one of your best poems yet, considering you have many good ones already.
LikeLiked by 2 people
This is the message of hope given by an old twisted and knotted willow tree living by the lake.
I like your poem, Kate.
Love ❤
Michel
LikeLiked by 1 person
not a willow, it’s a paperbark Michel … but it tells the same tale 🙂
LikeLike
Right on, SweetKate!!! Your poem is an uplifter, a smile-bringer, a joy-giver!
Gratitude is the key!
Oh, even as Human-Beans get more well-seasoned…possibly bent, knobbly, twisted…there is still beauty in each season/stage of our lives. No matter how life has treated us, we can still shine from within! 🙂
HUGS!!! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Nice one, Kate. Those commenting previously express the full range of my sentiments, so yeah, what they typed.
These aren’t scars, but character. Keep the healthy sap (positivity) flowing and all sorts of interesting and beautiful twists burst forth.
A few evenings ago I was watching the late Bob Ross (a painting instructor here in the States) and he said something that meshes nicely with your poem. Regarding painting trees – maybe not an exact quote, but close – he commented, “I like to give some trees knots and turns. I have to believe not all of them are destined to become telephone poles.”
LikeLiked by 1 person
Life is most definitely a challenge! ❤️ There are times when we find ourselves standing at a crossroad 🙂 it is then that we pay heed to instinct and strive to remain just.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Gotta have that last line.! Beautiful poem
LikeLiked by 1 person
I like comparing us to gnarled trees, light and shadow intertwined, as well as the acknowledgement and acceptance of it. It removes a draining burden, which gives energy to support each other. You’re so right, Kate. {{{Hugs}}}
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wisdom here.
LikeLiked by 1 person
So much positivity in this poem. It’s not about perfection after all its’ about how we live the life and face the challenges and how hard we laugh.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Beautiful and timely message, Kate. Accompanied by a fabulous photo. I love your words, planting roots of peace and harmony.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Cheers to all the survivors with grateful hearts!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Love your poem, love a paperbark and love being a fellow Aussie too!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hey! This poetry carry an aura, fragrance and holding the heart and soul with breeze. Absolutely fabulous words done effortlessly.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Right on Kate! With every moment in retirement, I feel God’s Grace.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Together is what counts.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thriving is aim, surviving is where we’ve com,e to in many parts of the world at present, sadly.
LikeLiked by 1 person
loved this kate..so much positivity..
LikeLiked by 1 person
thanks so much Chiru!
LikeLike
Kate, gorgeous photo! Well-written and powerful message! ❤ Cheryl
LikeLiked by 1 person
Fantastic words
LikeLiked by 1 person