Gideon’s Challenge – Daffodil

The First Daffodil

Daffodil

The first bloom
to open
and tilt its face
to the sun
smiles wide
as it
greets the world
with an
announcement
of spring to come
and each passerby
smiles back
relieved
to see the bloom
that announces
springs arrival
in vibrant hues

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge – Frustration

Railroad Crossing

Frustration

One more obstacle
when home is
all that’s wanted
and gut clenches
with the need
for that quiet
safe place
as car after car
rolls by
slowing down
little by little
until stopped
and it feels like
the destination
gets yet further
away
by the second

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge – Patience

Happy Dog in the Snow Painting

Patience

Waiting is easier
with entertainment
to keep
the attention
from watching
the clock
thus
waiting rooms
become galleries
filled with
pieces of art
meant to capture
the attention
and imagination

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge – New Toys

Twist the Leaf's Nature Casting Coins

New Toys

One by one
they show
their face
collected
over time
and from place
to place
until with tools
at the ready
they are altered
with care
to create
a new toy
bearing messages
to hear

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge – Transitions

Spring Flowers - White Daffodils

Transitions

Sweetness bursts
upon the air
as blooms
open wide
announcing
spring’s arrival
in vibrant colors
and floral scents
that mix with
the crisp bite
of fresh air
still cooled
by winter’s
last breath

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge – The Armadillo

Drunken Armadillo

The Armadillo

A moment
of surprise
as head turns
and hard shell
doesn’t at first
register
and then does
and the startle
becomes
laughter
as I realize
someone has a
sense of humor

Photo © ZenStatePhotography