The Slow Unfolding of Now

by Tanner Olson

THE SLOW UNFOLDING OF NOW

Quietly, you grow—
through grief, through joy,
through leaving, through arriving.

Even now, change finds you.
Roots reach, limbs stretch,
Do you feel it?
Sunlight breaks through the cracks.
Wind turns you east, then west.

Pay attention.
This life, a gift wrapped in mystery.
Neither of us asked for it,
but here we are.

Stay soft—
life is already hard.
Look to God, say thank you.
Look to God, ask for help.
Look to God, and do not look away.

Open your hands.
Another day comes.
Do not miss it.

Rest in the slow unfolding of now.

TANNER OLSON

Tanner Olson is an author, poet, and speaker. Across the country, he shares poetry and tells stories of grace and hope. His work has been described as “hopefully unique and inviting” as it blends faith, humor, and curiosity. Tanner is the author of four books, doesn’t take himself too seriously, drinks his coffee black, and cheers for the Orlando Magic. He lives in Nashville, Tennessee, with his wife, son, and dog, Pancake. You can find his work at writtentospeak.com.