the fall to silence
of tree frogs and cicadas
unmasks the trees' whispers

between the bird calls
within the stillness
I wonder

the weightless presence
of accumulated stillness -
night snow

without the walker
you glide across the room
and then I awaken

tanka #1

cherry in full bloom
poised to release its petals
clinging to this moment
I suddenly recall
I am well past my prime

76th

just a light dusting

in your uppermost branches -

white magnolia

75th

wispy willow

awaiting her fountains -

billows of longing