Original DDE™ art: “Ecstatic” by: rob kistner © 1/23/26
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Joy arrives without knocking
a small beautiful bird
chirping merrily on the sill
not asking what you lost
or what aches you carry
it is the lift in breath
when morning light
finds a clean edge on the world
the laugh that escapes
unexpectedly
not asking permission
joy is not boisterous
it hums
it steadies the hands
loosens the jaw
teaches the heart
a gentler tempo
it shows up while washing a cup
in the smell of rain
in the sudden kindness of memory
that chooses mercy over regret
it throws wide its arms
in realizing that you are loved
joy does not promise forever
it asks only this:
be here now
notice
stand still
breath fully
and let yourself be glad
<~>
rob kistner © 1/23/26