The Crying Sky
Moisture collects
bit by bit
as it builds
to larger drops
that drip
one by one
to earth
and grow
as they
join together
into puddles
and streams
until in time
the ocean
is made of
teardrops
from above
Gideon’s Challenge
Gideon’s Challenge
Missing You
Everything
around me
is so lonely
without you
by my side
your hand
curled on mine
and our fingers
entertwined
and nothing
is the same
without you
I need you
around me
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
Midday’s Dusk
Clouds roll in
to sweep
around
mountain peaks
like a scarf
wrapped around
a slender neck
as raindrops
hang
just out of reach
felt on the air
and yet
not touching
the ground
as light is smothered
under a heavy sky
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
Not Enough Sleep
Cranky
prickly
and unpleasant
each bump
leaves scratches
against the soul
as lack of sleep
breeds sour looks
and thoughts
clouded by
disorganization
and every touch
upon my skin
is another
irritant
with which
to contend
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
Too Much
Little things
pile together
bit by bit
until finely defined
details
become blurred
in the tangle
of all that
draws the eye
and pulls
on the attention
and fine details
fade away
under the onslaught
of chaos
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
The Simmer Pot
Apple peel
and bits of core
star anise
and peel
of orange
a cinnamon stick
or maybe two.
A spark of heat
some time to stew
moon water roils
into fragrant brew
of simmering
scents
that warm the home
balm the sinuses
and soothe
the soul.
Twisting the Leaf 