Resistant
I will not
be held
responsible
for the
impulses
of others
that cannot
find a lick of
common sense
with which
to spare
themselves
Gideon’s Challenge – Resistant
Gideon’s Challenge
Gideon’s Challenge – Defensive
Defensive
Sharp edges
promise
bloody wounds
should
tender bits
be touched
too eagerly
and only
a careful
delicate touch
will do
to coax buds
of uncertainty
to open
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – Tender
Tender
A touch
of tenderness
breaks through
paper thin
shell
to stir to life
what lies
beneath
and the next
inhale is
ragged and shaky
as insides
wobble
unpredictably
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – Soul Breathing
Soul Breathing
Gather close
energy and focus
and sink in
with closed eyes
and deep breaths
until the world
falls away
in a slow decent
and attention
centers upon
the tender spot
hidden
deep within
touched only
by him
then exhale
as tension
is let go
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – Daydream
Daydream
Let’s sale away
together
and see
the world
from a distance
its troubles
muffled
by water
and time
spent alone
just you and I
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – Anticipation
Anticipation
Scents
of evergreens
fill the air
and blend
with salt
from the sound
as each step
brings us closer
to the shore
just out
of reach
and yet so close
you can taste
the brine
Twisting the Leaf 