It's nearly Christmas, and I don't exactly have a holiday poem, but I do have one that's touched me because of all the news of people in dire need, for shelter, for food and water, for saving their lives. You all have seen the news, too. This time, Elizabeth Coatsworth writes about cats. When I researched it, I found this copy of a community newspaper with the poem. And there, I discovered that she was married to Henry Beston, a favorite writer, whose book, The Outermost House, is one I re-read. It's a dream book of mine of living on a beach. So this discovery was a lovely one, in addition to reading more about this couple. I hope you enjoy the poem for the sympathy shone and the connections I made.
Wishing you all a loving, Happy Holiday!
This is Patricia. Gosh such a lovely and heart wrenching poem! Blessing those who must make their wet way with a safe eave. Merry Christmas Linda!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Patricia, those in need are always in my thoughts, hoping that 'better' will come for them.
DeleteLinda, the poem is gutting because the connections are immediate and, oh, those final lines! How did I not know about Henry Beston? I was born on Cape Cod (but don't remember it, more's the pity, because we moved when I was three years old). I would love to read The Outermost House. It just went on my TBR list. Thank you. ❤️❤️
ReplyDeleteYes, you know I made that connection, Karen. I'm so happy to "connect" you with Henry Beston, hoping you love that book & perhaps others he's written! Thanks for telling me about your own Cape Cod connection!
DeleteLinda, this is such a touching poem. It really got to me. Thank you for sharing. I appreciate how you generalized it to all those in need. There are so many who are in dire circumstances now.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this very emotional poem, Linda. Thinking of outcasts and those in need everywhere this day.
ReplyDeleteThose final two lines in "This is a Night" pack quite a punch--beautiful and heart-wrenching. She puts the readers in the paws of those sodden cats. Wow--thanks for sharing it.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Tracey, Rose, & Buffy! I'm glad you liked the poem, and at its heart!
ReplyDeleteI think I'd like to reword the ending for today's connection to:
ReplyDelete"on which to [reach out] for outcasts," We need to do a lot more reaching and action to help, thanks for sharing this heavy-hearted poem Linda.
I hear you, Michelle! Our mayor is working hard to house the homeless here but there are many and there is a dearth of places to find for them. This is only one connection I made & I'm sure you & others know of the terrible need everywhere. Thanks for your response.
DeleteOh wow! This poem. Thank you for this.
ReplyDeleteLinda: What a poignant poem! Thank you, and especially for the connection with Beston. Yes, I reread the Outermost House also... it just won't let me go. Merry Christmas, Linda!
ReplyDeleteSuch a message in that poem, gently pulling heartstrings then shining light on a greater need. I’ll be looking for The Outermost House.
ReplyDeleteDiane (newtreemom)
Thanks, Jone, Karen, & Diane. Nice to hear that you re-read Beston's book, too, Karen, & you'll look for it, Diane. It is lovely. Be sure to look up its history, too! Happy Holidays to all!
ReplyDeleteThis is my first time reading this poem. It brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for sharing it here and for all the love and light you bring to others. I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas!
ReplyDeleteOh my, what a poem, Linda. You are a gift. Merry Christmas! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks, Linda & Bridget - wishing you both a special Christmas time, too!
ReplyDeleteLinda, there is always a sad side to life and this poem provides the words for us to stop and reflect on how warm and cozy our kitchens are. May your Christmas be filled with your family, love, and warmth. Thank you for always finding the right words to dwell on.
ReplyDeleteThe Coatsworth poem is so important, reminding us to remember those who struggle without comfort, family or a home. Thanks you for sharing it, Linda.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Carol & Janice. Considering the latest news, I know we must continue to have hope and wish good tidings for all those suffering right now!
ReplyDeleteLinda, what a lovely and sad poem about a cat who needs shelter. Wow. You and Coatsworth have got us thinking about those people in similar situations. Peace and overcoming to them. A blessed holiday season to you. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Denise, I appreciate your wishes. And, I am always thinking of those who need help, wishing I could wave some magic wand to change the challenges.
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