I needed some love but alas none was found
the tree had not even been planted!
The fruit of the spirit that grows from the ground
often is just taken for granted
When the test comes and the need is so great
it’s far too late to get started
The response that comes out is whatever we’ve practiced
and many times leaves us dis-hearted
Kindness and love are things that are grown
over time in our very own garden
The fruit that we bear and the spirit we show
of patience forgiveness and pardon
Practice is the key-the seed we must water
to reap a desired result
When the battle is near-words from our mouth
will show what our practice has built
Love and kindness, patience and grace…
things that are grown without lack
When the test comes in the heat of the day…
that’s when we want them all back!
Just don’t expect them to all just be there
ready, as if on demand…
If all we have practiced, are fruitless endeavors
planted in shifting sand
David Kettler
July 22nd 2017