B-9’er

“B-9’er” was a jacket keen
We craved and wore, liked to be seen
As on the in-group in fifth grade
It's toggled buttons status made.

Now as life moves on through the years
Benign takes different meanings here –
“It's not malignant, just a growth
That will discomfort with its poke.”

So out it came to test and see
Two months of waiting – you and me –
The night before results came back
Low sleep – more toss and turn than nap.

And then relief – “benign indeed!"
Life for us both now up to speed;
New freedom – let's take up our chance –
Wring life from this sad circumstance.

                   *******
Benign, or nine, or 9’er words
Have other meanings, some I've heard;
I write some down, some slip away;
Regardless, dear, we have today.

Today, a day unlike the past;
Today, a day where mem’ry lasts;
Today, a day to rest and play;
Today, a world on Jesus' day.

It's scary to move on from here,
Past lives deposit wisps of fear;
But life for all lies fore not aft;
First steps we take – some good, some daft.

O Lord, your grace comes over us
Like rising tide with little rush,
Which washes from our troubled past
Debris, that we have peace at last.

Tonight O Lord, I feel the weight
Of pending doom – one at the gate
Which marks the portal, here to there,
Which opens what cannot compare.

No-name, no details, much like dad
When Doc said, “Go where you reside”–
“No hope” he meant, “get your affairs
Set straight, for homeward you repair.”

You gave the words I needed then,
To make it through that shaded glen;
That word of comfort so I'd know
To act like that, and watch him go.

I don't know why you warn today
I hear your words – go out and play
For nothing else can stop the flow
Of life and death – so forward go.

I see, O Lord, I've freedom gained,
Yet danger lurks here just the same;
Just like the doctor said that day,
Some cancers kill a different way –

Like hearts give out, can't take the strain;
So change your lifestyle from the same
Old same old ways you've lived in past,
That life continue, as you asked.

Some parts are yours, Stu, wake up now
Take up your life, engage somehow;
Move on, and take your challenge up;
Go for the ribbon, seize the cup.

Okay, O Lord, I'll do my best
Engage with folks, complete the rest
Of what is on my hundred list,
Take up this life, your son has kissed.

Transparency, requirement tough;
I can't avoid a life that's rough;
But as I go I'll leave a trail
That those behind might soon prevail.

Lord grant that this new life of mine
Not be in this world viewed benign;
Give me the courage to move forth,
And bring to South the ways of North.

Thanks Lord.

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