Among the fallen leaves,

a dandelion smiles.

It’s not winter yet.

JDG

On my way to work today

I was  chanting,” I choose joy”

when suddenly my car filled

with an odious smell. I guess

the universe decided to call my bluff

 and see if that skunk

 would be met

with joy or an angry huff.

JDG

My days are slower, my agility less.

I spend time with clouds and earth,

listen to wind move in trees and watch

 the pond catch the moon. 

I’m not settling down or settling for.

At eighty I’m just settling in.

JDG

From a bare stump,

the sad remains of a well-loved tree,

new growth springs…

a reminder once again

of the surprising gifts this land

brings every single day.

JDG

Before the rain began,

under gray skies,

Knox and I walked.

He had time to

chase a few squirrels,

gather some sticks,

and tend to his usual

 morning business.

JDG

The rising sun

is beyond my control,

but I can still enjoy it.

My rising temper 

is a different story.

JDG

Today Knox showed me

how to find joy and you’re right,

it has to do with sticks.

Joy is scattered all around us,

and when we open our eyes 

and see it, like Knox, let’s 

celebrate its presence

and take it for a run.

JDG