I. Ocean of Confusion

Tumultuous sea
twists, turns, tosses bubbling brew of life
and brims with raw, restless potential
that clamors for release. 

            Chaotic community, global ramifications…
lost in minutiae, we clash over obscure differences,
fail to see our common lot.
Thoughts collide
in sea of confusion; reason,
purpose swallowed whole in wake
of senseless storm, catastrophe.


II. Calm of Golden Pond

On placid lake
beneath a shining moon, lovers swoon,
pluck from brisk winds of early autumn
promise of wintering together.

            Two silver swans glide into a cove
that’s become their home. Empty-nesters,
pair basks in glorious days
sated by the golden sun.
They relish cool nights warmed
by harmonious seasons well spent
in shared purpose, surrender.


III. River of Renewal

Coursing river
coils through heart of chalky canyon cliffs,
white rapid ride into the wild frontier,
toward a wide resplendent sea.

            From ravine of my own life flows
river of sorrow, river of joy,
on its rambling journey
to find a home
and energy renewed,
to offer some small contribution
to universal order, equilibrium.