Peaceful
The sweet scent
of spring rain
lingers
in the air
as clouds
skim
among treetops
in the
early morning
light
Gideon’s Challenge – Peaceful
pacific northwest
Gideon’s Challenge – Resistant
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
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – Defensive
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
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – Tender
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
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – Soul Breathing
Soul Breathing
Gather close
energy and focus
and sink in
with closed eyes
and deep breaths
until the world
falls away
in a slow decent
and attention
centers upon
the tender spot
hidden
deep within
touched only
by him
then exhale
as tension
is let go
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – Daydream
Daydream
Let’s sale away
together
and see
the world
from a distance
its troubles
muffled
by water
and time
spent alone
just you and I
Twisting the Leaf 