Waking Sounds

Early morning sounds, eager

to be heard, float impatiently through

the house, waiting for sleep to

loosen her grip and the final

curtain to fall on dreams that

will puzzle in the waking.

The dog's raspy breathing,

muffled whirring from the

refrigerator, a rush of air as

the furnace joins the orchestra,

the house's snaps and pops

as it stretches in the

retreating darkness.

A sound symphony.

May my awaking open my

ears to all the sounds of life,

those that bless and those that

curse.  May I be compassionately

conscious of sounds that rise from

human need, as I am gratefully

aware of melodies gifted by

beauty and joy.

And in my waking to life's sounds, may

I resolve to speak and act with

understanding and kindness

throughout the day.

May I become a sacred sound.