Gideon’s Challenge – Release

Star Magnolia (Magnolia stellata)

Release

A tight bud
of protection
can only
take you
so far
before
it’s time
to open up
and breathe
as the air
ruffles
your hair
and fills
your lungs

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge – Flustered

Macro Photography - Tortula muralis Moss

Flustered

“Pay attention”
she says
and eyes lift
to rest upon
her pretty face
and wait
for what
will come next
as clatter quiets
to silence
as if the world
holds its breath
and color rises
to her cheeks

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge – Irrational

Blackberry Thorns

Irrational

All sharp edges
and missing
the soft spots
I’m ready
to snag upon
any thing
and anyone
that steps
too close
with the
sharpness of
my warning gaze

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge – Whimsy

Bird in the Clouds  - Cloud Watching

Whimsy

Little bird
in a tree
high above
and watching me
flying high
among the blue
with wings
of clouds
and a
birds eye view

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge – Prideful

Pelagic Cormorant

Prideful

A deep breath
as chest swells
and chin
tilts high
as a moment
of satisfaction
flows
through senses
providing
a little spark
of energy
to light
the way forward

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge – Delight

Common Hyacinth

Delight

Pops of color
appear in
surprising places
as spring
warms the earth
and awakens
slumbering flowers
to coax them
free to bloom
and share
their enthusiasm

Photo © ZenStatePhotography