Progressive Poem Arrives - Line 24

           It’s my turn to add a line to Irene Latham’s annual Kidlitosphere PROGRESSIVE POEM, now the third one being written.  Find all about it here. And see where’s it’s been, and who will finish the week in the list on the sidebar. I’ve been reading and imagining what might be next each of the past twenty-three days, and now it’s time for me to step into this traveler’s shoes.     

             With peacocks and elephants, riding on eagle’s wings, following Irene’s advice, and packing sapphire eggs for the journey, my pack and thoughts are filled. I’m headed to the coast, ready for anything. (I think.) Amy Ludwig VanDerwater has brought a new idea to me, one of determination and affirmation, but then... I love surprises, and hope Michelle Barnes of Today’s Little Ditty likes them well enough too. She picks up the pack next.  There are only six days left!  Here's Line 24:

2014 Kidlitosphere Progressive Poem

Sitting on a rock, airing out my feelings to the universe

Acting like a peacock, only making matters that much worse;

Should I trumpet like an elephant emoting to the moon,

Or just ignore the warnings written in the rune?

Those stars can’t seal my future; it’s not inscribed in stone.

The possibilities are endless! Who could have known?

Gathering courage, spiral like an eagle after prey

Then gird my wings for whirlwind gales in realms far, far away.

But, hold it! Let’s get practical! What’s needed before I go?

Time to be tactical— I’ll ask my friends what I should stow.

And in one breath, a honeyed word whispered low— dreams —

Whose voice? I turned to see. I was shocked. Irene’s

“Each voyage starts with tattered maps; your dreams dance on this page.

Determine these dreams—then breathe them! Engage your inner sage.”

The merry hen said, “Take my sapphire eggs to charm your host.”

I tuck them close – still warm – then take my first step toward the coast

This journey will not make me rich, and yet I long to be

like luminescent jellyfish, awash in mystery.

I turn and whisper, “Won’t you come?” to all the beasts and birds,

and listen while they scamper, their answers winging words:

“Take these steps alone to start; each journey is an art.

You are your own best company. Now it's time to depart!"

I blow a kiss.  I hike for days, blue eggs pressed to my chest

One evening's rest, campfire low, shifting shadows brought a guest.