Gideon’s Challenge

IMG_7034Noisy Steps

Crunchy steps
the bits
of decay
look wet
and soggy
yet with each
step
they sound
like dry leaves
crackling
undfoot
and ice cracking
on a still pond

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

Not Lost

Each tree
looks the same
to the uninitiated
and lost souls
that are unused
to the patterns
and marks
and subtle hints
that lead
the way.
You can’t get lost
when you always
know which way
is home.

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

An Autumn Pansy (Viola)Little Buds

A mild winter
creates the promise
of flowers
that will not bloom
even as
vibrant buds
peek out
delicate and new
The kiss
of raindrops
no consolation
for the loss
of summer sun.

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

Alder Branch Nodule or NodeLook Closer

It is in tiny signs
that the promise
is given.
In little nubs
and tiny bumps
in delicate buds
curled tight
and close
to damp branches.
Everything
curled up close,
waiting for warmth
to set free
nature’s promise
of a new start.

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

Snowberries (Symphoricarpos)No Snow… Yet

Cold
eats away
at the remnants
of months past
and with each day
more withers
and falls
to decay.
Lack of snow
won’t save them
from life’s
endless cycle.

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

Cloudy Sky Above Mission BridgeFlirting With Disaster

One way in
and one way out
no deviation
allowed
as the pleasure
of what can be
experienced
in these moments
entrances
to persuade
the crossing
again and again.

Don’t collapse.

Photo © ZenStatePhotography