A Tree in Winter

In the wintertime of my soul
barren branches stand stark
clothed in heaviness of ice
bestowed by winter night storm.

But then comes morning
lavishing warm, bright sun
on my hard-stiff self
revealing resplendent prisms
glistening grace-fullness
untold beauty
hidden in the night.

I bask long in this Light
holding on so tenaciously,
to this moment of Transfiguration.

Reluctant, resistant am I
to let go
to allow myself to become
liquid in this Light.

So unaware in the releasing
life-giving water will flow
seep deep into the ground of my being
transforming my winter soul
into the vibrant beauty of springtime.

(Note: Sister Donna Butler created this piece in February 2007)