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
Gideon’s Challenge – Satisfied
pacific rainforest
Gideon’s Challenge – Peaceful
Peaceful
The sweet scent
of spring rain
lingers
in the air
as clouds
skim
among treetops
in the
early morning
light
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
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
Twisting the Leaf 