These Are My JOTtings, Part #2

New Horizons

Standing in this great porch view,
the misty hills I see.
So tinged with orange or with blue,
this new day calls to me.

Will talents of the past be used?
Will new gifts joyful show?
Will mundane life become amused?
Can an older man still grow?

A new year offers many things
to all, who stop to look.
The hopeful heart lifts joy, and sings,
its words, a published book.

But even if the moments wait,
before the new begins,
the peaceful breaths do work that's great,
preparing us for wins.

Sometimes the valley seems so dark
of rainbow's shady hues,
but when it's time to leave, embark,
you'll see you've paid your dues.

The highest heights, that God has planned,
oft start with muddy trudge.
The firmest plots of Beulah land
are after Despond's sludge.

The honor we so long to know
at God's Own Gracious Hand
is found in patience through the Slow,
the way, that He has planned.

by Jay O’Toole
on January 2nd, 2023