Barrier

There is a barrier in my garden

On the hillside, under the tallest tree

I built it to contain fallen branches and 

Leaves and fresh mown grass

It has seemed so perfect to me

Something removed, yet part of me

Silting dirt slowly making new soil 

Aging with weather and inviting rebirth

I am ready to remove the barrier

In my garden, on the hillside

Ready to open a new path 

A way to the the upper hill

It was never so clear to me

As when I heard your voice

Like a welcome bird song 

Taking measure of Spring

Sharing your faith and courage

While I enjoyed the safety of distance

At peace with not knowing you

Or inviting you to my garden

Yet my unquiet mind paused 

And then paused again

Listening instead of talking

Hearing a sound of sweeter meaning

Acceptance seeping into my soul

Around a core of new truth

Feeling the beauty of your soul 

Shining free in brightest warmth

And the beauty of my soul

Yearning for the same 

For tomorrow I will remove the 

Garden wall and harvest the compost

Grateful for all that you have brought

To this Spring of my existence