I was quiet today
all day
life is peak and valley
but even with all I’ve been through
this day was low
call me Chief Joseph
I’m tired
authorities say one thing
practioners say the opposite
embattled and entrapped
in bureaucratic *******
I will fight no more
for now
my voice is parched
my limbs are weak
my spirit is diminished
today they burned down the fort
I will lay low and rest
among the ashes
maybe tomorrow
or the next day
I will rise
like a phoenix
and fight again
but tonight
I’ll take some warm calming tea
and close my eyes and rest

Lord,
give me sweet sleep
and pleasant dreams

Del Maximo
(c)11/13/2024