Balcony Prayers
Fuzzy
furry
little leaves
bow to the chill
yet still
are green
Last harvest done
all that remains
enough to return
in spring
once again.
Time to protect
and hope.
pacific rainforest
Gideon’s Challenge
Musings of a Giant
Lie down
and settle in
on damp moss
and pine needles
and take
a moment
to breathe
and sink into
the smallest
details
and most delicate
hints of
a different world
just beyond
your grasp.
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
The Shift
Autumn slips
to winter cold
and drains away
vibrant hues
to muted colors
and soft
gray shades
Chill and wet
break down
summer’s bounty
as the last
of the leaves
tumble
to the ground.
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
Secret Spots
Where shadows
linger and
moisture gathers
Nooks and crannies
filled with
crisp fall scents
and decay
Places
to crawl into
to hide
and let the world
carry on while
plump raindrops
hold draw attention.
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
Reminders
Every time
I’m on my balcony
I’m reminded of you
as a little
stubborn face
peeks out at me
through
clinging moss
and scales of lichen
and my lips
curve up into a grin
as I give the
concrete shell
a fond little pat.
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
The Ache
I ache
for missing you
the teardrops
beading up
on the inside
instead of trailing
down my cheeks
my soul filled
with tiny fissures
minuscule fractures
that seep
that weep
as I trudge onward
working
hour after hour
and always
still missing you.
Twisting the Leaf 