Gideon’s Challenge

The Fence

Deep in the forest
where moss and fern grow
and branches tangle
and sway to and frow
there lives a fence
made of metal and chain
that stretches
between trunks
and stands tall
and unstained
how did it get here?
from where did it come?
this lost bit of linkage
out of place and alone

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

Crumbling Castle

Old and worn
battered and broken
but still functional
don’t climb
too high
falling through
is always
a possibility
Sometimes
we have to tear down
what we love
to make room
for something better

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

Cycles of Integration

Clinging roots
and beautiful shoots
the earth takes her time
and with every year
that passes
all becomes tangled
and the individual
is accepted
welcomed
and absorbed
until smooth stone
and small shoots
eventually become
sand and dust

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

My Beloved Sun

Paint me yours
like sunlight
paints the dawn
and spreads its claim
primal and perfect
over earth and sky
claiming each inch
and every crevice
with the warmth
of golden rays

There is nowhere else
I’d rather be
than here with you

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

IMG_7528bSpring Comes

Snowmelt trickles
from high peaks
down through rocks
and trees
and damp earth
gathering together
into hidden streams
whispering softly
through a world
of green
as rocks fuzz over
and a world
full of secrets
waits

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

Railroad TracksThe Impact

Metal screeches
and squeals
crunching
like monster teeth
gnashing in cold
morning light
ending
in a loud ‘tong’
that reverberates
through bones
and makes the space
between fingers
tingle and ache
as air blows out
harsh and loud
through parted lips

Photo © ZenStatePhotography