Gideon’s Challenge – Trees with Teeth

Lodgepole Pine TipsTrees with Teeth

It’s in the
crisp tingle
in the nose
and prickle
on the skin
that emerald hues
remain vibrant
through winter
for the miracle is
in the evergreens
that stay
lush and full
as winter
bites deep

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge – Temporary

Mossy ConcreteTemporary

A little of this
and a little of that
and focus
shatters
into a million pieces
sight obstructed
making it hard
to see
the light
I’m reaching for
and know is there

its temporary

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge – Jealousy

Emily Carr Statue - Victoria, BCJealousy

The confession
is difficult
to even whisper
within the
inner recesses
of the self
yet alone aloud
and yet
there’s no denying
that sometimes
I miss you so much
that jealousy
sears deep
beneath the solar plexus

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge – Encroaching Dark

Sunset CloudsEncroaching Dark

Gilded clouds
like
gilded moments
are fleeting
and hard to
hold onto
when the dark
creeps in
to swallow
them up
and leave us
longing
for the sunrise

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge – The Inner Child

Cookie Crisp CerealThe Inner Child

I am a
child at heart
when it comes
to food
with a
sweet tooth
and a love for
sugared cereal
that’s irresistible
delighted by
cartoon characters
on boxes
and the puzzles
and games
offered
on the back

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge – Fleeting Warmth

No RainbowsFleeting Warmth

No rainbows
flash colorful
and bright
in the face
of sunbeams
and rainfall
as clouds skim
above
and give peeks
at blue
that disappear
too quickly
to catch

Photo © ZenStatePhotography