Every Gifted Minute

It's a simple step into society's squabbling, ebbing tide

it draws you into its slow churning squalls

The recruiting current carries you along with so many others

Driven in directions governed by the drunken dogmas

of zealous sophists, resentful of any counter-current

any thoughts that don't flow together with theirs.

You must start your wings and gain the lift

of your everyday sovereignty.

Retreat to the mundane, Byzantine thrones

in the rooms you occupy - those of your own architecture.

Relish those moments of everyday ecstasy -

The way the light bulb offers its amber light

to the joyful jade fire embering in her eyes.

The throng will tell you different - they will strive to move you

from comfort to conflict - you must remained rooted.

Do not sink your spirit into disquieting worldly designs.

Rather focus your gifts on the higher motifs that lie hidden

among quiet evenings sitting, watching moments befitting

the home you built for easy contemplations,

where you watch, transfixed and attuned to

the simple sanctity of her saffron hair

as she twirls it round her finger. Stay there with her.

When they come to disturb and perturb, to engulf you in their enmity,

change the channel on the clangs and clamors of their world.

Be mindful, for they seek to squat in the splendor of your shelter.

Do not let today's fashionable philosophers mind your business

They will shrivel and fade in tomorrow's wind and wisdom.

Tend to your ordinary ideals, nurture their development and prune

away the wayward branches veering toward the popular and pedantic.

You needn't fly into their dubious histories or desperate hysterias.

The silk of their webs rub soft against your tranquil intentions,

and your wings are easily ensnared if you linger.

Lean back and alight! Take up your quill and note

the absurdities of their abysmal crashes, shrieks, and colors.

Offer regard for their ruminations and ruinations,

but do not engage with them.

If you seek the soft divinity wrought

by a mind willing to dive deep into the cooling ponds

of understanding, discernment, peace and kindness,

remain detached in your decisions.

So that when in weary winter,

when you are stirred from your safe December slumber

by the discordant carolers of chaos come knocking

Do not lend your voice to their mad ensemble,

instead offer them only

your ear, your grace, and if you're of a mind,

some chocolate chip cookies.

But send them on their way,

return to the pages of your simple solo song

where your voice sings sweetest and truest.

There, where you are mindful of the ordinary miracles

present in every gifted minute,

will you find the wonder and peace you pursue.