FULLY AND VIBRANTLY ALIVE
She can be brave,
She can be daring,
an intrepid explorer at the South Pole,
an astronaut mapping the Moon,
a hiker crossing the white sands of New Mexico,
or a girl traversing a frozen pond in Maine,
the ice so thick, she can navigate without paddle or boat,
bundled in hat and down coat,
with sure-footed boots carving a path
across the vast expanse,
sun gleaming,
horizon seaming the earth to sky,
she moves steadily,
not afraid of things she can’t explain,
she’s in control of this day,
of the way she wants to think,
to perceive, to receive the light streaming,
illuminating where she’s going,
where she’s been,
for she is brave,
she is daring,
she is fully and vibrantly alive.
Photo taken by my nephew, Daniel Bergin, of his daughter Kaya.
Just Poetry and Prose 
Oh, this is a beautiful poem, Rita! And photo. Such gorgeous verse for a child’s present and future inspiration. A true blessing and gift!
Thank you, Judy. The photo provided such inspiration. I hope that Kaya derives pleasure and inspiration from the poem and her walk across the frozen pond. xoxo
An ode to childhood daring and exploration. Your poems are always a delight. ❤️ 🧊
Thank you, Maureen! Children so often lead the way in helping us understand what is most important. xoxo
This poem is truly inspirational, Rita, and your words and thoughts of courage and determination should hearten us all, regardless of age or environment. Thank you so much for being such a shining star in my world.
Thank you, eehmm. I appreciate your kind words.