Mount Constellation

On a mountaintop in Virginia,
I recline under the open sky, watching
the stars emerge, slowly,
one by one, each making its appearance
with significance, with meaning,
gradually filling the sky
with order and disarray –
patterns both familiar and foreign.

I love the way they unfold
with such patience and grace,
revealing plans as indiscernible
as they are clear.

And I wonder why
I am not as patient
with my own life.