Gather all the light of yesterday —

sun and moon, star and fire,

in shafts and beams and sparks.

Strain thrice —

of cloud and shadow,

and random occlusion

(reserve for another use).

Pour into large, wide-mouthed jar

with tight-fitting lid

and set to distill

in a south-facing window

for three weeks.

Taste, to assure desired strength.

Decant into phials and bottles.

Inhale to counteract the blues.

Dab on pulse points to restore the heart.

Apply to the soles of feet to lighten the step.

Stroke over eyelids to find silver linings.

Touch to the tongue’s tip to sweeten words.

Glide over lips to revive a smile.

Pour over ice in Summer and serve

with mint and lemon slices.

In Winter, heat with cinnamon

and cloves and allspice

and ladle into mugs.

Share with friends, family,

and strangers.

Use generously.

— C.Birde, 8/16