Message In a Bottle Contests of Free Verse Letter

MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE My new friend, Your eyes pleasure my words. Hands fresh in a world unknown to me-- New in wonder and mysterious splendors With delight I greet you. Long flutters of time may have passed, But in days gone by I was a woman of steadfast heart. A soul with passion for life and those I love. I did not ‘go gently’ into the darkness. In this spirit, May I offer you advice. If you, in discouragement, Shall sometimes wander-- Find delight in things small-- The toothy smile of a child The memory of times lost The lingering kiss of a lover The embrace of a long absent friend Remember us— our luxurious foolishness, our craving for technology, our crushing intellect without remorse— Remember us With kindness. We loved We laughed We helped others when we could Or when convenient Cherish your world As we did not cherish ours Find possibilities in peace Adore each atom Celebrate each centimeter of your beloved’s body And, in small quiet moments Think of me And my blessings Afresh on you. Victoria Anderson-Throop Dec 10, 2012