Defense Mechanisms

Even the most
beautiful of buds
with silken petals
in alluring shades
have sharp thorns
to protect them
but how
do we learn
to ease up
on the thorns
and let in
the sunlight
of love and hope?

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

The Stranger

Words hit like
sledgehammer fists
crushing
in their impact
as they speak
hatred that is dark
sticky and cloying
insidious grasp
a whisper awakened
that you
are not welcome
and forever
undeserving

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

First Aide to the Soul

Teardrops fall
each one minuscule
a drop
in the bucket of life
to be collected
and stored
for us to wade in
when times are
not so difficult
not so stressful
and far easier

They are the balm
to our bruises and burns

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

The Bee’s Bell

Little pockets
to hide within
just dip down low
and climb right in
the colorful walls
are soft as silk
while delicate fuzz
will tickle a bit
when seeking
sweet nectar deep
within the bell
and dusted
in pollen
we’ll bid farewell

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

The Promise

Tucked beneath
green leaves
lies cool waters
waiting
patient and quiet
waiting for me
to slip in and sink
and let myself be
surrounded
as I’m pulled deep
into an embrace
soft and gentle
that promises
peace

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

A Romp in the Woods

Come lie with me
under long limbed trees
dripping with
sweetly scented moss
and let time slide by
as we stare at the sky
from under shaded
canopy’s embrace
let earth’s sweet voice
whisper softly
and the breeze thread
through your hair

Photo © ZenStatePhotography