Pacing My Life

by Cheryl Merrick

Freed from past constraints,
I excitedly enter stores
assessing all that is new,
I assume responsibility
for grocery shopping and weeding.

Unwilling to remain at home alone any longer,
I spend my days out walking,
shopping and doing research at BYU,
and even playing wiffle ball with students.

Overwhelmed by choices,
I attempt to do everything at once
Til painful wrists and knees,
spinning head and fatigue,
Remind me to set priorities
and literally not to run faster
than I have strength.

6/8/08