This morning felt like a whispered promise, one that wrapped around me with gentle warmth. After attending Holy Mass, I found myself driving home, the morning glory spilling golden rays across the road. And then, right in front of me, emerged a stunning rainbow — an arching spectrum of colours that melted my heart. I gazed at it, captivated, as if the universe itself was painting an exquisite sign of grace “just” for me. In that moment, the kaleidoscope of colours reflected the inner journey of my life, illuminating my soul and prompting an overwhelming surge of gratitude.
Upon this day, beneath the vast arching skies,
I stand in reverence, as time softly sighs,
Golden years unravelled, like threads of a loom,
Fifty suns have risen, dispelling the gloom.
In the quiet of morning, I gather my thoughts,
Reflect on the lessons, the battles I’ve fought.
In each joyful tear, in each heartache’s strain,
The grace of Your presence, O Lord, was my gain.
With gratitude swelling within my soul’s core,
I offer this poem, a homage to more
Than mere numbers or years, or the ticking of time —
In this canvas of life, You painted a rhyme.
O bounteous Creator, who breathed life into clay,
With a painter’s precision, Your artistry lay.
Across the expanse of my journey, profound,
In colours of kindness, Your blessings abound.
As I sit in the car, after Holy Mass at Holy Trinity Church, I saw,
A rainbow emerging, in awe I did withdraw,
Each hue, a reflection of moments I’ve known,
A promise fulfilled — a love ever shown.
Red, the hue of passion, of fervour, of fire,
In the challenges I’ve met, my drive ignited high’r.
In the battles of youth, where ambition took flight,
I marvelled at Your wisdom, guiding me right.
Orange, bright laughter that dances with joy,
In friendships’ kindness forged, where none would destroy.
The gathering of hearts, in harmony’s bliss,
In moments together, sweet love, sweeter than a kiss.
Yellow, a sunbeam, my spirit to warm,
In the light of Your grace, I found shelter from storm.
Like the dawning of dawn, each day a new chance,
To walk in the light, in a sacred romance.
Green, the earth’s bounty, that springs forth anew,
A testament living that mirrors the true.
In the beauty of nature, Your hands would bestow,
The wonders of life in their beating endless flow.
Blue, the vast ocean, a signal to trust,
In the depths of my trials, You tempered my rust.
When waves of despair threatened to sweep me away,
Your whisper, a lighthouse, made clear my true way.
Indigo speaks of reflection, depth and peace,
A moment, a pause, where all worries cease.
In silence, I hear Your voice in the still,
A gentle reminder… “Rely on My will.”
Violet, O majesty, in grace it unfolds,
The purpose of struggle, the miracles told.
In the tapestry woven by hands that create,
I embrace every thread… lessons intricate.
Now, I sit in my reading room, in shade and in light,
Thanking You, O Lord, for this wondrous sight.
For the highs and the lows, those laughter and tears,
Each moment a treasure, each lesson a spear.
Thank You for the rain that nourished my soul,
For storms that have shaped me, did make me whole.
For friends who have gathered from near and afar,
A constellation of love, my own guiding star.
As the rainbow arcs over the sky bathed in grace,
I bow in humility, my heart serene, now in place.
For the gift of this moment, in splendour arrayed,
A fifty-year journey, in gladness and gratitude laid.
I look to the future, not fearful of time,
With a heart overflowing, I’ll continue to climb.
Embracing the colours, the joys yet unknown,
With faith as my anchor, I’ll never walk alone.
So… here’s to the journey, to the ages untold,
To the tapestry woven in warmth, not in cold.
Thanksgiving to You, O Divine and True,
For the rainbow of life, rich in vibrant hue.
Today, I stand at the threshold of my 50th birthday… a milestone that feels particularly significant as I celebrate it during the joyous season of Thanksgiving. It’s a day dedicated to me by the grace of God. Yes, but more so, it is a day of deep gratitude for all those who have graced my life. As I reflect, I am acutely aware that I am not walking this journey alone; my heart swells with appreciation for the Almighty, and my beloved family, cherished friends, and even those souls who I have yet to meet but who will undoubtedly leave their mark in my life.
I contemplate the theme of this day and realize that each person who has touched my life embodies a unique and special quality, accumulating into the essence of being truly SPECIAL. Through this acronym, I intend to express my heartfelt thanks for the relationships that have shaped me. You are special ‘coz you are…
Supportive. You, my family and friends, have stood by me unwaveringly, offering support through both the mundane and the complex intricacies of life. Their encouragement has been my anchor.
Positive. The collective positivity shared among us fosters resilience. This energy not only enhances my everyday experiences but builds a solid foundation of joy that sustains us through challenges.
Empathizing. It is the understanding found in empathy that binds us deeply. Through shared laughter and tears, we navigate the ebb and flow of our individual paths, cherishing the bonds we form, enriching our journey collectively.
Compassionate. Acts of compassion, both big and small, illuminate the roads on which we walk together. They remind us of our shared humanity and cultivate a sense of belonging.
Inspirational. I owe so much to those who have inspired me. Their strength and courage ignite a fire within me, propelling me toward my dreams, shaping my character and creed along the way.
Authentic. The authenticity I share with my loved ones creates a safe haven where vulnerability is met with acceptance. In this environment, I feel welcomed and supported to express my true self. Safe haven leading us to sacred heaven.
Loved. At the heart of it all is love—the cement that ties us together. The love we give and receive is a powerful testament to how deeply we impact one another’s lives.
As I ponder these qualities, I am reminded of how richly I have been blessed by the Almighty, our living, loving, and life-giving Lord. On this special day, I’m filled with gratitude for everyone—family, friends, community, and even the strangers, potential friends, who will one day walk into my life.
In my heart, I hold tightly to the notion that You are precious because you are special. Each of you enriches my journey as I celebrate this golden chapter of my existence. Your presence in my life truly blossoms and flowers, reminding me that we are all unique, irreplaceable beings in this vast garden, indeed blossoms of existence.
My feelings resonate well with my humble poetic words ” Blossoms of Existence”. Just like a fragile flower yearning to bloom, we navigate life’s seasons, holding dear the moments we share. Each petal that unfolds tells a story—a testament to our struggles, joys, and the beautiful, fleeting nature of life.
Dear readers, let us bloom together in kindness, honouring the vibrant threads that unite us, weaving our stories into the tapestry of life. Today, 11 December 2024, I hold my hands open wide in gratitude and love, saying to each of you: “I love you. Your being has coloured my life in hues I never knew existed, and I am tenfold richer for it. Here’s to 50 years of Blossoms of Existence, with countless more to come.”
I Thank God for the GIFT of YOU…
PHOTO:
‘Blossoms of Existence’ painted by the writer on 2nd December, 2024.
QUOTE PHOTO:
Fred RogersQUOTE:
‘There is no person in the whole world like you, and I like you just the way you are.’ – Fred Rogers (1928–2003). Commonly referred to as Mister Rogers, he established himself as an esteemed American television personality, accomplished author, proficient producer, and dedicated Presbyterian minister.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the Sarawak Tribune.
