Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Just Listen








The master painter had painted the land crystal white 
 As the night painted a black sky
When the timid gray dawn crept in
 I was in awe and asked what to do
 The elder said to “Just be, simply listen.” 
But you cannot hear the snowfall 
 You cannot hear the white shadows 
 You cannot hear the roots of the trees as they hang on
“They are all talking to you 
 But you have to shut the door behind you 
 You have to hold your breath 
 You have to close your eyes 
 You have to empty your mind
Come sit on the bench with me 
Do you hear?”



And, yes, I heard the geese 
as they lofted the snow from their backs 
even though they were a mile away
as they traded war stories



12 comments:

  1. A great representation of winter, which we have in full measure right now!

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  2. Beautiful images of winter, a new twist on a familiar scene. Love it!

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  3. Beautifully written
    Your benches are perfect for sitting outdoors when it snows. I recommend using a dry cushion.

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  4. So pretty and peaceful. Still I'm glad it's not outside my window.

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  5. New snow creates contemplative conversation with oneself.

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  6. We had a real snowfall here once, and yes, you can hear the flakes as they land. It's a beautiful sound.

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  7. I'm in awe of your poetry. Everything was quiet and clean when snow fell here. After 2 or 3 days I was ready for it to be gone, lovely or not. :-)

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  8. Yeah, I have trouble with sitting and listening, but I like your pics. And the poetry too.

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  9. Fantastic sights, beautiful quietness.

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  10. Yes, I hear! Love these photos, especially the two that look like etchings along with your poem.

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Glad to hear from you once again. I really like these visits. Come sit on this log and tell me what you are thinking.