Down here by the Murray River,
where life swims all around;
above and beneath the surface,
in this heat, everything flows —
Beers, BBQs, budgie smugglers and babes in bikinis,
memories bobbing above ground
capturing freedom; post-pandemic and pre-celebrations.

Down by the Murray River,
watching things flow safely and soundly,
birthing new possibilities:
boyfriends, babies, businesses and brews?!
Endless possibilities abound,
prophecies realised; salvation.

Down by the Murray River,
with nature, our souls sing loudly,
simplicity is possible,
trusting and enjoying,
everything is allowed.

No word, now, spoken is new,
Except for thought in my mind,
Except spoken in my mouth and
Embraced in your heart.

I don't think I spend too much,
But then I spill out my shoe
Collection, an addiction, sorted by hue.
Cupboards flung open to reveal the gradient of such
And don't get me started on bags and the clutch!

Rivers of life run deep,
But then I look at the contents of my journals;
The "now and not yet" cries reveal how hormonal
Am I. Dim focus on the eternal creeps --
To cover more of the heart, I try to keep.

New year near and nearer;
But a return to stillness yearns.
When we hide, these addictions burn,
Igniting guilt, shame and all --
Where are you, simplicity? Is this the fall?

Heroism comes in the form of a sweet smile, a helping hand and a kind word.

Devastation rips through this sunburnt country,
Fires consuming life: livestock, land and promises birthed at the beginning of time lost in those we know.
Sneaky smoke ***** the breath from their lungs; saying it’s your time to go.
Why now?! When families gathered to celebrate with presents under a tree.

We are the land down under; great Holy Spirit consume this horror!
We see your love in the helping hand, the
Compassionate face that chose not to demand,
Gratitude for the thousands of helpers professionals, and the like, we praise you with honour.

Thank you