put it on red
What are you betting on?
ocean waves
the current always
comes to shore
…
when we place
our bets on someone
or something to happen
the more often
the outcomes we want
will feel like chasing
timing and luck
action or distraction
When do you find yourself losing focus?
heading west
the deer eat falling petals
from the rose bush
…
sticking to the plan
was always the plan
but when the plan
brings other plans
we can plan on
making new plans
for future plans
saucer and cup
What memories are you holding onto?
steeping tea
the water becomes
a green oasis
…
just as the memories
we carry are filled with
emotions and experiences
we hold onto them
for as long as we can
until the time comes
to let them go
sit in place
Do you give yourself time to be present?
window blinds
streaks of the sun
dance on the wall
…
while we may
have aspirations
and dreams for change
we should also
lean into living with
what’s here first
to gain more perspective
word for word
Do you follow instructions?
ikea manual
a splinter in hand
a chair in the other
…
for some of us
following instructions
seems second nature
while others deem
and prefer to rather use
their own mind
to figure things out
factoring in
What does the price tell you?
stone lantern
falling rain collects
at the basin
…
where an object was made
what material was used
what purpose does it serve
who made it
are a few factors
we need to consider
other than looking at the price
sprinklers
Do you let nature take it’s course?
pink dogwoods
blossoming and dancing
for the neighbors
…
water the plants
on a schedule
or until we decide
to turn them off
and let nature
take its course
and let the rain fall down
the pursuit
Why do you care about solving problems?
rabbits scurry
around pine needles
to the meadow
…
to get to a better place
such as first
in a race
is a problem
for us to solve
if we care enough
about the task at hand
old headphones
What do you think about growing up?
black snake
curling up
into a hole
…
the leather
may be peeled
the cord
might be bent
but we will still
have the music
in our heads
makes us weep
What makes you cry?
cutting onions
a knife releases
ancient curses
…
our tears
may be hard
for others
to understand
unless they know
what has occurred
in our lives
city or country
Where do you prefer to live?
dust settles
on tabletops where
cacti once stood
…
will we surround
ourselves with
an environment
that encourages
and flourishes in
hustle and bustle
or quiet and calm?