To never change a mind that’s closed
or stroke the lion’s mane
With fate embedded, etched in stone
you’re left with what remains
In tunnels dark and burrowed deep
you hide from nature’s wrath
Whose last denial, truth reviled
—reseeds the garden path

(The New Room: July, 2022)

The Ocean has no conscience,
no judgment, joy, or hate

She dances with you to her beat
in stirring waves of fate

With reverence you may enter
all blessings on the day

But just one slip and she reminds
what ancient mariners say…

“Red sky at morning, sailors take warning
red sky at night, sailors delight”

Her message best taken when early to bed
life in the balance, her power to dread

(Rosemont Pennsylvania: June, 2022)