Daughter of the Universe

In response to Peggy W question "How would you best describe where you live in poetry?", I realized that my location does not describe where the heart of the matter is. Although, I do believe she was making reference to a place of residence, it did not resonate for me. Instead, the following poem is what came to mind.

I suppose I have always felt a kindered soul to all people of the earth and, since stepping onto my spiritual path, a child of the universe, as well. Whether it was my observations in my classrooms of people who were from other ethnic groups, or cultures I became aware of through my father's National Geographic magazines, I became fascinated at a very young age with the vastness of the world that I had yet to explore beyond the confines of my 'backyard community', and was excited that one day I would have the opportunity to do so.

I am acutely aware of the poverty of the rural town where I reside. There is no major industry, the tiny town has less than 5,000 people in population, and one has to travel two hours for any substantial cultural offering.

Yet, it has been a haven of healing in the months of mourning my husband's death, and I have made some solid friendships here that will last, whenever I eventually get the calling to move on once more. For, although I prefer to be close to family, it hasn't always worked out that way. I've followed an inner guidance, some may call it their North Star, that has led me to many different places. From the Midwest to the center of Alaska, and down the Pacific coast; from California to North Carolina, I have travelled many highways and have felt at home no matter where I set up camp.

I truly believe I was born under a wandering star...

I was born with the heart of a gypsy

No home will I name…

Stars of the Universe; Mother Earth’s beauty-

It’s all part of my claim.

If I could sail, I would be on the sea

Travelling the waters blue,

Stopping at ports that call to me,

Discovering something new.

I am Life’s devotee

Following a Master Old…

Seeking Life’s mystery

The story yet untold.

The beaches call my name

The mountains call my heart

Ultimately, they are the same

Although hundreds of miles apart.

From the tip of Alaska to far below

Adventure has taken me far;

I don’t often plan where I will go,

My heart is my guiding star.

To describe where I call my home

Is not in my destiny.

All too soon I am called to roam

Where, is yet to be…

If you search for me somewhere

I may seem out of sight

But, you will find me in a prayer

Whispered in the night.

This original poem written by Denise Handlon on March 29, 2012, may not be copied or reproduced in any way, except with expressed permission of the author. Thank you.