Maya

I open my eyes. The world spreads as a field
flowered in swirling green light and shadow.
I close my eyes. The sunlit world
darkens in the cool of moonless night.

I open my eyes.  On still water
a lotus flower slowly opens.
I close my eyes. Lotus petals
curl, fold and drift down and down.

I open my eyes. A small bird
wanders from branch to branch.
I close my eyes. All the birds
fly away to forests hidden and deep.

I open my eyes. Storm clouds and thunder
flash with lightning and rain.
I close my eyes. A sound like a bee
drifts slowly away, flower to flower.


Portland, Oregon – July 25, 2020

Maya is the world of that rippling pond…the fractured, sparkling image of reality that is no reality but only its broken surface.”  (Myths of LightEastern Metaphors of the Eternal.  Joseph Campbell.  New World Library, p. 48)

Solstice

The solstice nears,
days long, night short,
dreams wild and insistent.
Spring bleeds into summer.
Riotous colors of flowers
announce natures bounty –
the sun dominates.
Moonglow lost in late evenings –
Children shout joyous release.
The longest day takes hold –
the solstice nears.


Seattle, Washington – June 19, 2002.  This was written by my lovely wife, Carol.  Lovely in every way!