The Other Side

Our journey is set, we have everything
we need; our way is mapped out. We don’t
see the mountain ahead until we crash
head on into it.  All of a sudden we are climbing.

scared and alone, injured

and without a compass. We toughen up or
we die.  We can give up or keep going but
we'll never be the same carefree wanderers we were.

We will bear these scars forever.

One day we find ourselves on the other side
of that range and though the steps are easier, we
are forever changed. We know now

that the road may be smooth, the scenes

serene; but tomorrow
there could be another mountain,
an ocean to cross, or a valley to traverse. 

A Knot in the Wood

The perfect grain interrupted.

Calm color of honey displaced
by russet and black ulcers.

I wait for the new cabinet to arrive.

One unified slice of wood, no blemish,
stain or fault; run my hand along
smooth, cool wood and stop short.

I see them side by side, perfect and flawed.
Clear to me now, I crate up the new
cabinet and gaze at the beauty of the
knotted old one.  Knots display character.

The Estate

Acceptance is a place,

an estate arrived at by

many paths that twist

and turn, lots of switch backs,

pits,  and mountains to climb.

The way there bought by

work, tears, pain, and grief

but at the end of the road is that

elusive estate of beauty, serene

countenance, and peace of mind.

Acceptance is a place, come sit

at my table, I’ll share what I know

of it.  I’ll tell you of my journey.