A Useful Presence*
There is no perfect setting. You might think
at twilight when the whole day peels away
to tell us what remains; what we've missed
this time by worshiping only the wrappers.
We set out to get inside the day. All the while
constructing the box that will bear away only trinkets.
I love the sound of the stream as I approach. It speaks.
Cannot hide it's leaving, but comforts with its flow.
Without hesitation, I want its trickled source
though I'm bound for the narrow canyon.
The too familiar rushing away and the inevitable pouring
out. Through all this talk a prayer to be still,
give up my hammer and agree with every word;
warning and promise.
*Previously featured in The Dande Review