Ragged
Rough edges
should wear down
over time
like pebbles
in a stream
become smooth
and round
as water flows
over them
for decades
and centuries
and yet
sometimes
those rough edges
only get sharper
with time
Satisfied
Lawn chairs
and lazy
afternoons
as the sunset
blazes
after mown lawns
and
finished chores
lie in
the rear view
and a little
iced tea makes
dark’s apprach
free
of worries
Peaceful
The sweet scent
of spring rain
lingers
in the air
as clouds
skim
among treetops
in the
early morning
light
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
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
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
Twisting the Leaf 