Life is like a ball of yarn . . .

Life is Like a Ball of Yarn



 . . . it usually starts out nice and neat;

with strands in their proper places

but tucked inside it’s fat little belly

are beginnings of intricate laces.

Hold on to the ball's big round belly,

as you carefully work to unwind it

for once you let that little ball go

you might have to search to find it.

Now make the length, only what you need;

. . . no more than you can handle.

That ball’s like other things in life

. . . it can get you in a crazy tangle.

The outside face must hold together

as you work with anticipation

for these will be the finishing threads

for the last of your inspiration.

There’s a lot to learn from those woven threads,

and when they're all in place,

you may look back with admiration

at the pattern of your lacings.

 

-Joy Stalvey Barefoot (2010)