When a Tree Shows its Roots - Jan, 30, 2025

from storm

or other act of God

the mesquite has fallen

roots ripped out of hiding

its large pipes and pullies

still operate as the sun reaches

down and lends a hand

reminds me of the Indian man

I met   minus arms and legs

waddling around Mumbai

on deeply calloused stubs

begging without complaint or pity

and the look on his face -

the10-rupee smile he gave

so much larger

that resolve to live stops me

quiets me   humbles me

notice that ugliness can become

beautiful when we empty

the darkness from our eyes

and let a new light open them