Where did the summer go?

I can’t believe it’s time already 

For the leaves to be turning red. 

Where did the summer go?

Nature’s consciousness

When the cloud mimics the trees 

On its horizon, we can postulate 

 That nature might be conscious of herself; 

Might even have a sense of humor; 

That the cloud teases the trees, 

And the trees chuckle among themselves, 

And feel more proud and beautiful, 

Having been flattered by her charming imitation.

Asking for help

There will be times 

When “doing what comes naturally” 

Gets us into trouble: 

Minor troubles, for the most part, 

But there may be problems 

We struggle to resolve on our own. 

Don’t be afraid to ask for help: 

Your willingness to admit to need 

Is another’s opportunity to feel 

The pleasure of generosity.

How bountiful

The majestic sweep of bridge and sky, 

The mountains and the sea conspire 

To remind us just how small we are, 

And how fortunate, to reap the benefits 

Of living in so bountiful an environment.

Simple things

So kind of you to leave us your chairs 

That we might pause to enjoy the view 

While out on our evening walk. 

Imagine if kindness and finding pleasure 

In simple things 

Were goals all of us bought into…

Ordinary beauty

Perhaps, as John Cowper Powys suggests, 

Life would be sweeter 

 If we could learn to appreciate — Even enjoy — 

The beauty in the ordinary, 

So that even a trip to the mailbox 

Becomes a pleasant excursion…

Fire season

It’s fire season in our fair state, 

And though our little corner has been lucky so far, 

The major road onto our peninsula was closed 

All Thursday day and night 

For a fire that was finally contained 

But still burning when we drove out Friday. 

And so we were doubly grateful

for last night’s rain…