There is a secret that only the wisest shamans know
It is that praise is what keeps beauty alive
But this praise is not superficial or of the self
It is true, heart pouring out praise of what is truly valued
Praise says ‘You are in the world and you mean something
You are beautiful and I see that beauty and honor it,’

This simple but openly joyous action
Is like pouring water on a parched garden
It brings everything to life
And allows it to shine

It can be praise of a human being
Or a flower or dog or a tree
Or nature itself
Everything will respond in the same way
Because everything is animated by the divine

My poetry is a celebration of this praise
It is the only way I know
To keep the beauty of things alive.

Image by Bruno /Germany from Pixabay