POEM: HANDS ON MY HEART

One gorgeous April afternoon
Strangers would turn to friends, soon.
Just a few hours earlier that day,
We stepped off the plane, ready for play.

We said many greetings,
Because with 40 of us there were so many to be meeting.
Gathered in the Temple we’d come to know so well,
Incense filled our noses—the most lovely smell.

Little did we know we would adore sharing space,
Even during challenges, during a race.
Representing 19 states and flights from many miles,
Add two more countries and newfound smiles.

We all came with a reason or a story,
Seeking peace, growth, and our version of glory.
Every single one of us took a breath in sync,
Making eye contact without any blinks.

As someone whose chest has endured a lot of trauma,
Each person’s hand helped me let go of the drama.
I told you all I was a survivor,
Ready to leave my cocoon and become a thriver.

Em sent us a video message to be ready at sunrise,
Dreaming of tomorrow, I closed my eyes.

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All photos by the lovely Lia of Oh, Honestly, a photography service.