-- THE SENSES –

John Herlihy

The five senses, vibrant, alive,

Taking notes on every passing whim.

As portals into the interior, we arrive,

Can they ever be filled to the brim?

The five senses, diverse, intoxicating

Grounded only by a feathered weight

Deep richness of worlds, approximating

From outer to inner worlds thru a gate

The senses, questioning, seeking answer

The outer senses take meticulous notes

Stalking the world as a phantom panther

The inner senses internalize subtle hopes

The five senses, never emptied, always full

On their journey, ever at work or at play

Enticing worlds with their enchanting pull

Their nourishing waters show us the way

Each sense distinctive, the lightness of touch

Slight but insistent, nurtured by roots of love

The feathery breaths of caress mean so much

As light as the wind lifting feathers of a dove

One particular sense a true source of mirth

The paradisal blessing in the sense of smell

Aromatic scent of blossoms drawn of earth

How sweet the message they wish to tell

The sense of hearing fills the silence of ears

Sounds, rhythms, melodies beat a steady drum

Seasoned by inspired sentiments thru the years

The whole world comes alive with its sacred hum

The tongue, mind, heart all instruments of taste

To experience the world in all its rich fullness

With bitterness and sweetness our lives laced

Adding to our lives a varied and unique richness

The sense of seeing offers such a glorious sight

The eyes as windows of the world to inspire

Grateful not to be blinded in an everlasting night

As we gaze upon the glory of nature’s attire

Outer senses explore the world and its wonder

Sights and sounds offer a cornucopia of plenitude

The inner senses the waters of a deep well plunder

Where mystery and truth pursue a path of certitude

Perceptions of the senses offer a consoling wisdom

Lending insights that the mind discovers to be true

Noble servants humbly serving the human kingdom

Filling with enchantment as the sky is filled with blue

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Copyright © John Herlihy

Tuesday 28 June 2022