The thread is like my inner north star, bringing me back to what is truly important.

The Way It is

by William Stafford

There is a thread you follow. It goes among

things that change. But it doesn’t change.

People wonder about what you are pursuing.

You have to explain about the thread.

But it is hard for others to see.

While you hold it you can’t get lost.

Tragedies happen; people get hurt

or die; and you suffer and get old.

Nothing you do can stop time’s unfolding

You don’t ever let go of the thread.