The Gift of Hope (poem) by Taylor Ryan on AuthorsDen

The Gift of Hope
by Taylor Ryan → (All Poetry by Taylor Ryan)
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For Matthew and Miracles: And so each of you in this AD family doesn't worry about me and this write...I need to tell you that it is indeed about my son, Matthew...however, today is the sixth anniversary of that day...and yes, he is a miracle. ________________________________________
Harsh ring of telephone Breaks the silence of the dawn… Unnecessary and unwelcome sound So early…too early…don’t listen. Eyes slowly focusing on the splendor Outside my window Water bejeweled by first light So serenely still you can hear the loon diving Resurfacing to the break of day across the inlet In careful watch of his lifelong mate What can be so important at this early hour? Roll over, nestle back under the duvet Let it wait If important, it will ring again Luxuriate a little longer among the piles of pillows And pristine white linens of mother’s guestroom Go back to sleep Enjoy the holiday morning peace “It’s for you,” she said… Knocking softly at the door so as not to wake others, As if that ring hadn’t put end to night “Tell them not to call so early next time.” Her voice disgruntled, Resenting that work always seems to follow me on Holiday. Awake now, best not leave long distance waiting, Too early to think of budgets and deadlines and petty crises Such a glorious morning should never be disturbed By man’s invention When the resound of His symphony is just outside, Dawn’s warmth radiantly igniting The scent of mountain pine And Towhee’s brisk sunrise song…”Drink your tea…” Down carpeted stairs from my lofty nest, Navy and white…four posters of pickled pine, A design of mother’s talented eye. Through grass-clothed hallway, Cyprus trimmed Cross anciently colorful Heriz and provincial nailed wood To the voice awaiting me. I knew exactly who it would be…last minute changes. Why so early? But the voice was unfamiliar, Not at all the anticipated southern drawl Haunting, grave, hesitating…harshly factual One I’d never heard before. Heart pounding in my chest Catching myself in word crossed lines… The kind you never want to hear… I could only listen, but did I hear? Body numb with lifeless chill and hollow void, Struggling to mouth the necessary questions Fight the feint… Breathe…just breathe… Deep breath…. Slow release. And the world changed that day… Or the simplicity of my place in it, One life among millions. The drive ahead lay silent, Choking for breath in July heat Endless it seemed …unyielding Vision tangled in the odds of confusion Of life in the delicate balance Of scientific minds And the promise of Life Everlasting In God’s compassionate hands… The infinite light of Hope in my heart. No birds sang on that ride home. But He was with me, A reminder of this gift of Hope… In this the most significant test Of innate strength and faith… This odd ability of mine To find composure in fear, To think on my feet. His warmth consoled me in these wretched hours, Helping me to focus only on the immediate… The future no longer within my control… While swallowing tears… Remaining visibly strong for everyone While crumbling inside… Never let it show. He knows my way and my path. My shoulders feel his hands. My journey now begins. Taylor Ryan July 2, 2006 © 2006 Taylor Ryan (All rights reserved)

Reviewed by H. Lena Jones

Reviewed on August 20, 2006

Traumatic! Those early morning phone calls are rarely good news. Felt your tension and worry throughout. Thank God, today Matthew is alright. Your faith was, and still is strong, Ryan. Thanks for sharing and thanks for the message, too.

God Bless
Lena

Reviewed by Phyllis Jean Green

Reviewed on July 13, 2006

Oh, Taylor. You. . .I don't know what to say. You had the wisdom -- and the talent -- to show, rather than tell, and as a result, we
see, hear, feel. . .oh, how we feel. . .w i t h you. Like it is happening today. Images are unreal!! By which I mean,
absolutely, unmistakably, and soul-shatteringly real. The pain, the questions, the love. . .how could we not be deeply moved?! I envy you the depth of your faith. What an inspiration you are!! A n d your Matthew!! Love always, Pea <3

Reviewed by Richard Cederberg

Reviewed on July 3, 2006

This was filled with those snapshot memories and visuals that define how most humans percieve.

I felt as if I was watching a movie from the protagonists perspective.

There is so much happening around us, and in us, at any given moment, and the ability to decipher all the input and emotion and bring some semblance of order and clarity to what is happening so others may live the moment with the poet, is a bloody gift.

Taylor, you have that gift! You have the ability to draw one in to your heart with the wooing of your words, and you have the humility and guts to expose things that many would consider sacred.

My life is enriched by your constructs and our friendship!

Be most blessed!
I salute you Poet!
Richard

P.S. Maybe its time to put a picture of yourself on your Bio Page so everyone can "see" whose writing these lovely constructs. Hmmmmm?

Reviewed by jude forese

Reviewed on July 2, 2006

powerfully emotive yet with clarity and direction, this poem captured the affect of the moment when life abruptly alters its course ...

top notch poem ...

Reviewed by Andy Turner (Reader)

When ones tounge is glued to the roof of the mouth, and the legs are trying not too hold ones weight...

Indeed every momment spent in joy with ones beloved is a kiss from God...

Reviewed by Regis Auffray

A gripping and compelling poetic account, Taylor. YOu have most effectively created the angst of these life-changing moments. Thank you for sharing this gift. Love and peace to you,

Regis

Reviewed by E T Waldron

This poem is one that only a gifted writer could construct. Your words and images have a mesmerizing effect, Taylor! Whatever the finality,please know I'm here for you,and have you in thoughts and prayers. (emailed you music info)

Love,
Eileen

Reviewed by Susan Sonnen

Dear Taylor,

I feared the ending of this poem. I, too, have received such a call. After midnight. Before she could say anything, I asked, 'Is John okay?' 'No, Susan, no, he's not.' Your words are so intense and describe the moments so well that I fear this was written from your own experience. Know that you and Matthew are in my prayers.

Susan

Reviewed by Peter Paton

Taylor

" Hope springeth eternal in the human breast "...

I know that gripping and anxious filled feeling too, and it is these defining moments that shape oue lives..

As life and death are suspended in the Balance of Providence, it is then we are closest to Almighty God, then we can hope and pray in certainty for his everlasting mercy and compassion..

I was reminded of a great song by Bill Withers whilst writing this comment..." Lean on Me "...

"Sometimes in our lives we all have pain
We all have sorrow
But if we are wise
We know that there's always tomorrow

Lean on me, when you're not strong
And I'll be your friend
I'll help you carry on
For it won't be long
'Til I'm gonna need
Somebody to lean on "

I have broad shoulders...you can lean on me Taylor...

Love
Peter

Reviewed by Jerry Bolton (Reader)

Sisan is right, this poe, is slow building, so that I was leaning forward to catch the nest line. Very well done.

Reviewed by Susan de Vegter

You are not alone my friend. Your words build the tension in me as though there was one heart. I've heard that ring, answered the call knowing the negatives... then fear...then being stronger than the fear..persevering and making it through. I'm here if you need me.

Love and peace Taylor. We girls need to stick together in times like these.

Susan