The Shed Notebook: National Poetry Month: Always William Stafford

I always include at least one poem by William Stafford during National Poetry Month. This in one of his poems that I wasn't as familiar with, but it is timely. Today I am thinking about the thread that has guided me through life. It has woven through events large and small, happy times, and sad times.  The important message in this poem is to never let go of that thread. Today, I am hanging on tight to my thread.

THE WAY IT IS

There’s a thread you follow. It goes among
things that change. But it doesn’t change.
People wonder about what you are pursuing.
You have to explain about the thread.
But it is hard for others to see.
While you hold it you can’t get lost.
Tragedies happen; people get hurt
or die; and you suffer and get old.
Nothing you do can stop time’s unfolding.
You don’t ever let go of the thread.

—William Stafford