Gideon’s Challenge

Cloudy Sky Above Mission BridgeFlirting With Disaster

One way in
and one way out
no deviation
allowed
as the pleasure
of what can be
experienced
in these moments
entrances
to persuade
the crossing
again and again.

Don’t collapse.

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

Wet Fall Leaves - Leaf VeinsBefore the Crumble

Tiny fissures
little cracks
the breakdown
comes in slow
and stealthy
with veins
once so flush
with life
drying up
in a starvation
of moisture
while lying prone
in a puddle
yet
unable to breathe.

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

Fence Chains and WireHard Body Cuddles

Coined
in loving arms
as long legs tangle
to brush
against leaner
versions
of the same.
Cold nights
warmed
as I become
so wrapped up
in you
that the world
disappears.

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

Western Red Cedar Bough TipsMore

Layer
upon layer
of need,
each builds
upon
the one before,
growing
in strength
as the old
gives birth to new
until, insatiable…

I reach for you.

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

Waterfront PubA Slow Death

Rural spots
with lots of rust
and rain filled
skies
hang low
An unnatural
quiet
as water soaked
wood swells
and deteriorates
while the drip
of raindrops
is the only sound.

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

Pacific Northwest Feather Moss (Antitrichia curtipendula)The Spot

Come lie with me
on a bed of
feather soft moss
that tickles
against the flesh
as it cushions
our weight.
Come sleep
with me
among the ferns
and boughs
of cedar trees
that shelter
us from harm.

Photo © ZenStatePhotography