For the most part, our lives are scheduled by clocks and calendars.  They tell us when to get up and when to go to sleep, when to change clothes to accommodate the weather, when to keep appointments, etc. etc, etc.  In Ecclesiastes 3, we are told:  To everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven. Pete Seeger adapted that message in his song Turn! Turn! Turn! recorded by Judy Collins and released in 1964.  In part, the message is “there is a time to mourn and a time to dance; a time to weep and a time to laugh;” but neither the clock nor the calendar indicate when that time arrives. We need to figure it out ourselves, and it’s not easy. Each person’s experience of grief is unique, but eventually there comes a time to dance and laugh again.  After nearly two years of tears, I have come up with my anthem for going forward. 

                                             Ever onwarD 

Stand straight and tall, head held high, focus above your distress.

Pray that God will give you strength and bless your efforts with success. 

Though it will take both toil and time, be confident in the belief

That deep within you have what is needed to cross through the valley of grief.

With faith and perseverance, taking one step at a time,

You’ll eventually reach the peak you seek at the top of an arduous climb.

 And when you conquer that summit, although it may take a while,

 Your heart will be at peace; once again you’ll smile. 

Seek new horizons; dream new dreams; pursue a new purpose in life.

Complete your commitments, do the best that you can beyond your struggle and strife. 

Live well, laugh often, love much;  appreciate the beauty around you.

Honor the past, make the most of each day, grow in wisdom, serve others, renew.

Now I just have to follow my own advice and “walk the talk,”  or to quote Nike, “Just do it!”