Flames Close to Home #78

Flames Close to Home In the heart of a world so vast and wide, Where the winds of turmoil and peace collide, There's a lesson, subtle, yet powerfully arrayed, "Focus on extinguishing nearby fires before addressing those far away." Among the trees of trials, under skies of concern, Where the flames of challenges fiercely burn, Heed this wisdom, let it lead your day, Start close to home, where your influence may sway. For the fires nearby, with their crackling sound, Require your attention, here on your ground. Tend to these first, with a steady, caring gaze, In the art of living, this approach amazes. It's easy to gaze at distant plumes of smoke, And dream of heroics, in one grand stroke, But true change begins where your roots lay, In the fields you walk, in your everyday. So take up your bucket, your courage, your light, Battle the flames that are within your sight. For in each small victory, in each fire put at bay, You're preparing for the ones that are further away. And when the time comes, as surely it will, When distant fires beckon your skill, You'll be ready, with strength and wisdom to convey, Having learned from the fires you've faced along the way. So remember this mantra, in your heart let it stay, "Focus on extinguishing nearby fires before addressing those far away." For in each small ember, in every spark you douse, Lies the path to peace, for your heart, for your house. -Written by Steven G. Lee (January 17, 2024)