Give yourself to others

Oak wine barrel

An old barrel sits quietly,
dried and faded by the sun.
It used to be full,
holding tight an essence to which
it imparted its wonderful qualities.
The precious elixir rested,
breathing slowly and soaking at peace.

The more the barrel gave up,
the more it could again take in.
Again and again allowing shelter and rest
until just the right time.

Each of us has our own inner essence
to draw on and share with those around us,
offering love, peace, patience, kindness.

In the process, may we make time to let
our essence rest, breathe and refill,
so we don’t dry out.