Friday, May 02, 2008

no time......

for all of us who say we have too much to do.....
too many things on our lists, too many appointments, feeling overwhelmed, no free time....I try to remember this poem by this amazing poet....



"The Art of Disappearing" by Naomi Shihab Nye


When they say Don't I know you?_
say no.__
When they invite you to the party_
remember what parties are like _
before answering._
Someone telling you in a loud voice_
they once wrote a poem._
Greasy sausage balls on a paper plate._
Then reply.__
If they say We should get together_
say why?__
It's not that you don't love them anymore._
You're trying to remember something_
too important to forget._
Trees. The monastery bell at twilight._
Tell them you have a new project._
It will never be finished.__
When someone recognizes you in a grocery store_
nod briefly and become a cabbage._
When someone you haven't seen in ten years_
appears at the door,_
don't start singing him all your new songs._
You will never catch up.__
Walk around feeling like a leaf._
Know you could tumble any second._
Then decide what to do with your time.

1 comment:

Christa said...

Wonderful poem - great message. Thanks for sharing it!