Some poetry inspired by the peace I have been feeling while in some New Brunswick woods. This east coast wander has been so refreshing for my soul and invigorating for my spirit:
penniac
pine trees touched by the winds elusive whisper
as gnarled branches stretch for a desperate grasp
a glimpse of motion for the motionless
an ethereal backdrop to a sun glistened river
swollen with the springs runoff
sun dapples the moss on which i sit
bird song heard at a tantalizing distance
and i sit peaceful in the penniac woods
respite for my weary mind
the sun warms the winter’s ache in my breast
while a river’s breadth away lies highway 8
its asphalt beckoning my feet
and i know i will answer the call
but not today
today i rest on sun dappled moss
filled with anticipation
echoes of memories
the energy of my memories flits about this park
i wonder if the tree and stones
recall the things i do
the laughter of my children
tumbles and echoes in the background
but only i can hear it
this grass nourishes the memories of many
this park has been the receptacle
of so many generations’ energy
the warehouse for memories of youthful days
as i sit in remembrance
there comes to me the sounds
of a new generation
perhaps the trees smile
at our illusions of permanence
zen
shovel clangs on the barrow’s edge
another load of soil to move
painting a landscape with a laborer’s tools
siding slapped on the back of a shed
affixed with nails to this final wall
angles calculated for the remaining pieces
what another left as unwanted waste
finds find value in this one work
with sun soaked sweat
and rain rinsed determination
space is cleared for nature’s return
at day’s end awaits the buddha’s peace
rest in weary contentment
too tired for thoughts of myself
in this day’s labor - meditation
