Holding On
Hold on
just a little longer
as the wind blows
and the leaves
rustle by
on the ground below
cling
just a bit longer
with bob and sway
as cold bites
and seeds fall
and spring’s promise
becomes
a little nearer
every day
Gideon’s Challenge
Gideon’s Challenge
Sunstroke
Everybody reaches
for a taste
of the sun
never realizing
that it’s
in the shade
we find rest
and peace
for the warmth
fools us all
into thinking
that it won’t
someday
burn us all
to a crisp
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
Pleasure Trap
Little hammocks
drape
between branches
clinging to
bits of moss
and lichen
in an invitation
of comfort
under the shine
of a winter sun
but I wouldn’t
recommend
taking them up
on the offer
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
Waiting Welcome
A soft rug
padded and warm
lies
before the fire
with a blanket
and pillow
iced milk
and cookies
near by
to tempt you in
and bring you home
to arms
eagerly waiting
to be filled
by you
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
Quiet Moment
At last
a moment
just one moment
to pause
and breathe
while heart rate
slows
and the tension
in the gut
begins to ease
its ugly knots
as the silence
seeps in and
the stillness is
a goodnight kiss
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
Changing Guard
Moments slip past
as movement
and stillness
collide
in the drop
of the sun
beneath horizon
and the flare
of vibrant colors
that are cast out
as the day
breathes
its last exhale
and night steps in
for the next breath
Twisting the Leaf 