TENDERNESS GROWS

Tenderness is like a delicate green plant

In the spring of each new year

Reaching heavenward in its

Desire to grow into its fullest expression

Tenderness is a gift, the seeds of which are within

That ability to give love and understanding

The patience to wait for prayers to be answered

The willingness to extend beyond the familiar

Tenderness grows when in it is planted in a willing heart

Into a world which may not yet know its value, but is starved for it nonetheless

Tenderness cannot force open the door of a heart that refuses to be opened,

But, instead, stands at the door waiting to be invited in