Spring Cleaning

Clean my house, Oh Lord.

Come into my closet and start pitching.

That faded fear,

The ragged resentments,

Those worn-out worries;

Which seemed like such bargains

When I bought them.

The family heirlooms – anxiety, envy, guilt

I accepted so easily – Pitch them Lord.

That trunk stored in the back,

Full of bitterness, deceit and revenge –

Pitch it all Lord, before I say,

“But I might need that someday!”

Peer into my cupboards and throw out:

That stale bread of idleness,

The salt poured into wounds of those I love.

The aging fruitcake continually

Soaked with new sorrows.

Stock me instead with packages of productivity,

Healing balms for the broken hearted,

Fragrant spices of your forgiving mercy.

Straighten up my drawers, Lord.

Reorganize my quick temper and harsh words

Into patience and gentle answers,

Intentions of goodwill.

Sweep away the cobwebs of false pride

And selfish ambitions.

Shake out the rugs of apathy.

Polish the silver, now tarnished

From broken promises.

Fill the vases with blossoms

Of faith, joy and wisdom.

Hang curtains in bold new colors

Of strength and dignity.

Throw open the windows—

Let your Spirit-Breeze freshen the stale air.

Shine your Son-Light into the dark places

Where depression dwells.

Brighten the corners with laughter

For days yet to come.

~Debra Simpson Bushek~