Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Remaining


Some things go on forever;
Christmas tree needles,
confetti,
and glitter.
It's  not a bad thing:
They're on the asymptotic curve,
memories of happiness that fade
but never quite reach zero.

December 23 2015

Saturday, December 19, 2015

Conversation


I talked to God last night.
He said, "Don't worry. It doesn't matter
if you believe in me. Truthfully?
It isn't as big a deal as some people think.
I just want you to be happy."
But the pain, the suffering, I said. What about that?
"Well, I'm not your babysitter, you know.
Believe me, it hurts, but I'm your parent
and I want you to grow--and yes,
those who die I heal with me."
Okay, I said, but why? I mean,
why all this in the first place?
"Because," he said, "there was nothing before,
and I had to. I am the creator, after all.
Really, I am creation, so..."
And then he said something I didn't understand--
but what do you expect?

December 19 2015

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Water Sweep


I used to want to be a water sweeper.
So peaceful
working in some basement with a broom,
pushing shallow flooding toward a drain.
It isn't easy--
water wants to walk back where it was--
so I would savor every sluicing,
but admire the water's tenacity.
You probably have to wear really good boots
to keep your feet dry
and contemplate life's easy flow
like one of the Buddha's followers.

December 2 2015