Each Side Gives and Takes

  A L O H A  From

H  O  N  O  L  U  L  U

It's easy to believe  
the world rests 

on our shoulders 
that every gentle touch,  
and whispered comfort,  
is a gift we alone bestow.

But see the way 

their eyes meet yours,  
how their laughter 

lifts the room,  
how their stories 

fill the silence  
with memory and heart.

We are not the only givers here.  
With each small gratitude,  
every squeeze of our hand,  
every moment of trust,  
they teach us the 

language of resilience.

Honor the caring
That flows both ways,  
The  river has two banks,  
Each side gives 
and takes.

Let us notice,  
And appreciate—  
In this circle of care,  
How we all are held  
And holding,

In this living 

That we share. 

Cloudia Charters