Last night at dusk
I ventured into the city.
It was eighty degrees,
balmy and beautiful.
I floated without a shiver
over concrete and asphalt
in my sleeveless silk top
and a flowy skirt.
On clicking heels,
I entered the library
and found myself embraced
by a parliament of owls.
All around me:
smart curious thinkers
with expansive vocabularies,
bright faces and open minds.
Over canapes and crudite
we caught up and embraced
shared introductions and
brought another into the circle.
A hush fell upon us;
we turned to the lectern.
We heard first-hand
about the next chapter
of our shared institution.
A ripple of energy
buzzed through
the gathered party
as we witnessed the future.
So much can be gained
far in front of us
if we only rely on our
North Star.
Our Five Pillars will guide us
as we navigate beyond
the turbulent surf of today
to light a path for a distant day.
How full of wisdom
— and practicality —
to anchor on the heavens
instead of staying mired
in daily skirmishes.
I left rejuvenated
and reminded
of purpose,
of community.
We all have levers
in this world that we hold,
that we can influence,
support and amplify.
How will we help
shape our legacy?
The next chapter
depends on us.
