What if I were to tell you?

What if I were to tell you?

What if I were to tell you that 

soon I will be turning 55

and that I really can't

believe that is true

that turning 55 scares me

more than when I turned

50 years old

that didn't even bother me

What if I were to tell you

that I get nervous

reading poetry out loud

but I want to do it anyway

What if I were to tell you 

that I am still in love with my spouse

after thirty five years

of marriage

What if I were to tell you

that I am still not quite 

sure about my artwork

and calling myself

"an artist"

that is a very big word to me

What if I were to tell you

that I strive to be

the best that I can be

each and every day

I am still seeking

still trying

still moving forward

still trying to figure it all out

What if I were to tell you

that the grieving of my parents

is almost over

not quite

but I am getting stronger

with every passing day

What if I were to tell you

that I do like me

Donna Lee

all that she is

 all that 

she hopes to be

I am getting there

it's been a slow journey

toward self

What if I were to tell you

that my life is full of blessings

that I am grateful

for all of it

for each experience

each step in the journey

has brought me to where

I am right here and now

What if I were to tell you
that today I am living with
a very grateful heart


(Poetry prompt inspired from Liz Lamoreux)