I sit outdoors in every weather
letting come, inside or out, what comes.
Today it is steady rain and chill.
I take cover in the garage
sitting on a camp chair
before the open door.
I see down the long drive
the last oak leaves hanging on
in the face of December
soon to fall to winter’s floor.

Out in Cascadia’s realm I am
being drawn into the phenomenal world
scented in the calm and quiet of natural life –
wild and mysterious in sensual appeal.

Wool cap and down jacket, warm boots,
fingerless gloves for work –
finger tips getting cold now.
The steady rain turns to a slow drizzle
as my thoughts slow and still.
I hear whispers out there, seekers
searching for listeners.
The sentient world
trying to tell me something.

Here I am.

Portland, Oregon – December 7, 2019