On the far bank
of Braddock Run
in high summer
you might find
the deep satisfaction
primal
elemental
of crossing quick water
after a rain
It might not be easy
Around your footing
nothing will lurk
but steady and
irregular force
the stones worn smooth
and slippery
the shallow
shattering
surface of the run
alive
with imbalance
in the mottled
morning light
Take a slow breath
feel
the cool air
of the shadows
hear
the small water sounds
rising
Look briefly back
then climb the rough bank
if you can
and look closely
at the heart
of the hydrangea's
pink flower
blue flower
white flower
Forget
your life's obsession
with decay
Everything
in the natural world
is driven by beauty
We have much
to live up to.
Total Balance Farm
Press 53