The River Speaks

Italy has enchanted me
the mighty Arno calls my name
gently first, but then tugging strongly
come walk on my banks, dream
cut loose your inhibitions
study, learn, write
partake in my beauty
experience the culture
cut deep into the land
carve your path
as I did mine
the Arno tugs at me
and I answer,
for Italy has enchanted me

Growth

long lines, short lines
crossed lines, coarse lines
thick lines, thin lines
darting everywhere
this way, that way
all arranged in disarray
but wait, be still
a pen moves boldly
these lines slow, mesh
disarray will go away
from within, it comes
a face gentle, young
confident and strong
born from confusion
liberated to life

Album of the Month

This is simply, the album I listened to more than any other last month. I can't get enough of this sound.

When in Rome...

Metamorphosis

Small and weak, a tree is born

Seasons change, years pass by

It develops, shifts, gathers size

Roots push deep within the earth

Anchoring firmly, forming foundation

Storms blow in, breaking limbs

It holds its ground, steadfast and resolute

Developing, growing still

Once this tree was feeble, even bare

Now it stands majestically bold

Laden with the fruit of age

david elliott baird 5.11.08

To an unknown person (on a train to Prague)

He stood on the platform
Raised his arm, waved good-bye
and watched your train depart
Love filled his face
Tears magnified his eyes
He hesitated, turned and walked away
He's going to miss you

Munich

Saturday, I was in Munich. Saturday, I visited Dachau. On Saturday, I cried.