some of the best moments are spent watching ripples
at the waterside a quiet peace prevails
on a sunny day the ripples create a cloud
of sparkling lights like fireflies at night
shimmering and glimmering, a mesmerizing display of fireworks
wind and water, channelled by unseen contours of earth
long smooth ripples and short splashes stirred by breezes
this softly echoing surface draws the eye's attention
like a lullaby soothes the ears, lulling us to calmness
when everything is too much, too intense, lacking meaning
these ripples and everchanging reflections soothe
their impression quietly smoothes the hubbub and distress
bringing back a gentle awareness of this moment
complete in its peace, the harmony everchanging
returning thought to these times like returning
to the soul, gliding silently across the ripples like a swan
echoing calm beauty in its wake
Lake Alice, September-1996