We have what we seek. It is there all the time, and if we give it time it will make itself known to us. ~ Thomas Merton
While searching my blog for information on my Desert Wisdom Cards, I came across a poem I wrote about a year ago. It was called A Still Life in the Desert. I read it and thought how differently I would write the same poem today. How little things have changed in my world, gradually adding up to bigger changes, to living life in a direction I could not have imagined a year ago.
Different focuses, different goals, even different ways of seeing the same thing. And so I did a re-write. Here is the second iteration of this desert poem.
A Desert Portrait in Still Life
I am…
intertwined cactus spines
complex protective patterns
mysterious yet beautiful.
I am…
a pulled back curtain
a crazy quilt, fantastically embroidered
an unlocked trunk.
I am…
a cloud of red dust
tumbleweed dancing
a desert basin, easy on the wanderer’s eye.
I am…
a beloved assemblage of photographs
a deck of desert wisdom cards
poetry scribbled on scraps of paper.
I am…
idea incubator
questions and work-arounds
prayers of gratitude.
I am…
pulp, photographs, a hawk milagro
inked letter press
the alphabet in my hand.
About Bo Mackison
I’ll need to read the old poem to really appreciate, but this version is fascinating to me.
Yes, the comparision of the two is what I find interesting.
I love both poems, Bo, but the new one feels so positive and exciting. I also adore that photograph – STUNNING!!!
Thanks, Jacqui, there does feel to be a noticeable change.
And most important – ‘you are’ you!! Such a beautiful poem!!!
Indeed, Marcie!
Fascinating, and oh so you. Keep writing, my friend. Keep writing. And sharing!
Writing is in my blood, Debi. And with a camera — no telling what will happen, hey?
Such growth! A lovely exercise in change and changing. Thank you for sharing yourself. Be happy.
Thanks, Carrie. I do love noticing the gradual changes over a year. Yes, i am happy!
Excellent in black and white, which allows me to see the intertwining lines.
This is one of my favorite cactus photos — I love the pattern too.