December 31

It is not quiet that follows
the storm of my own

making. They are not lost,
the clouds

that fall away
from clouds.

After all these years,
I am sad to be myself.

To be of the earth
and like the earth,

headed nowhere except
in circles.

When the planet winds
up where she started,

it is a cause
for celebration.

I am trying to be so generous
with my despair,

so hopeful.