The past often feels like another life full of travel and adventures. Socialising on bush walks, in cafes, outgoing and always friendly. I have no great expectations of the future as death lurks closely!
The sun rises gently peering around a few low lying clouds. The tide swiftly flows in bringing the rhythmic shout as the dragon boats train. The garbage truck is stopping and starting. The birds noticeably absent. Ensconced cosily in my forever home, the sacred space to meditate …
life and river flow
fleeing like my moments
my cycle ebbing
PS Not dying at this stage but knowing that ‘death’ lurks near ensures I get my priorities straight!
aroused 
I think not having expectations of the future is a good thing. Enjoyed this and loved the photo too.
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you crack on at an amazing pace with all your pain and grief, that’s to be expected!
take care precious 🙂
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A lovely expression on life and death–the constant cycle. I I didn’t see a place to leave a comment on “Abridged.”
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This is a beautiful meditation. Yes, death is always near, no matter what age we are. (K)
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We have a choice of noticing where we are on the journey, dreaming about past stops or anticipating the next stop.
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Monday is gone
Tuesday is here
Wednesday is coming
Thursday is near
If I make it to Friday
My spirit will revive
And hope to come out of
My weak end alive.
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A wonderful Haibun, Kate and today at this juncture we have to be positive and let everything be the way it is. Prayers and being kind to one and all is what is so required. Best is to leave everything to our God and He knows what he is doing.
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Beautiful photo and your words paint a picture to go along with it…the ebb and flow of life. We are always moving are we not? Sometimes, things seem more stagnant, but then the flow picks up again, moving us along. I always think we must stay open to the currents, face the sea before us, believe that the best is yet to come. 🙂
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A beautiful poem and a beautiful photo!
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For starters, thank you for the note!!!! A lovely well composed haibun, cheers!
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A wonderful shot. Living in present moment doing what you love is mindfulness Kate.
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I’m pleased you’re not dying at this stage. You had me worried. From the moment of birth (or conception) we’re all heading in that same direction. The more miles we walk, the further the tide goes out.
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I’m sad to hear you have no expectations of the future but at least you are able to find peace in the moment.
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eliminating expectations and fears is a goal of meditation Ingrid, it ensures real freedom and peace of mind.
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Good point!
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I’m glad I read your P.S Kate. I was a bit worried before then, though I know it’s an inevitable reality for all of us. Good job!
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Your haibun brings us face to face with reality. As you winter comes on I imagine your cozy house will be the place to be to do your writing! Well done.
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Wonderful verses and I can feel the inevitable pull of the tide going out – not my time either but as we age it becomes more noticeable.
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“I have no great expectations of the future” — relatable! XD
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Kate, I hope you get your priorities straight to your satisfaction!
BTW where are you? Where are these dragon boats?
❤
David
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they’ve always been straight thanks David! Australia, started for women recovering from breast cancer but has really grown. So they race off starting from the bouys out front, I’m right there!
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You are well-oriented in your place in the midst of all.
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Beautiful poem Kate. I think remembering that our time here is limited keeps life in correct perspective.
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Great title, photo, and haibun, SweetKate. We can all relate.
Take one day at a time enjoying the sun, nature, sounds-around, meditation, etc. 🙂
(((HUGS))) 🙂
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Us well-seasoned folk realize how important each day is…grateful for it and making the most of it! 🙂 It’s a great vantage point to have. 🙂
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Ebb is such a perfect title. There’s a hint of depression in your words, the same we all try to resist after the long cessation of our normal lives.
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This was a quiet, soothing, contemplative read that took me deep …ever so lightly and gently. I did notice you mention of death lurking and sensed exactly what you explained in the note at the end. I love these reminders of how precious life is, coming my way time and again. Much Love my friend.
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I understand you are a bit sad in looking at the past . May the daily life and this usual sounds and also the show of the nature bring to you encouragements, Kate.
Love ❤
Michel
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During these past, long months, there have been moments when I could feel the ebb and flow of life backed up. Much like a creek turned into a pond by a enterprising beaver, I look forward to life’s freedom to truly flow.
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My favorite line is about the garbage truck starting and stopping. I don’t know if you meant it this way, but it’s like a euphemism for the ebb and flow of sh!t that seems to happen every day regarding what we can/can’t do and how bad the pandemic is. Your imagery is on point!
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