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The View
On my visit
to the Grand Canyon,
it struck me that many people
spent very little time
actually pondering the view.
Yet, there is so much
to see,
to feel.
To need.
It is like transcendent poetry
chiseled onto the side of each rocky point,
words in vibrant meditation
written within each color
of every canyon wall.
I had to ask why they leave so soon,
how they could turn their eyes away
so casually from such a sacred experience.
The canyon replied,
almost in a whisper,
"It is not because they do not see me.
It is because they do not see themselves."
***
Style / type:
Free verse
Review Request (Intensity):
I appreciate moderate constructive criticism
Editing stage:
Content level:
Not Explicit Content
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Region & Country
United States
Favorite Poets
I tend to read Ted Kooser, Jim Harrison, Paul Simon, Robert Frost. I like minimalist poetry, and poems reflecting on nature and Mother Earth.
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Comments
Geezer
Mon, 2022-10-17 14:02
Looking for meaning...
you are right, for most people if it does not pertain to them directly, whatever wonder of the universe is nothing more than a hole in the earth, a spill of water or a show of light. As B.A. Baracus might say: "I pity the fool" You have lit up the page here.
I was doubtful about the use of the word [need], but I couldn't find another that fit the meaning that I'm sure that you were going for. Good work. ~ Geez.
.
There is value to commenting and critique, tell us how you feel about our work.
This must be the place, 'cause there ain't no place like this place anywhere near this place.
Lavender
Mon, 2022-10-17 15:28
Hi, Geezer,
So many of us take the tourist form: point, comment, snap pictures and selfies, turn and walk away - much like a check-off list. We are so determined to move ahead to the next wonderment, we don't slow down to experience and appreciate each wonder for what it is and who we are in relationship. I have a vital need for the canyon, and Mother Nature. There is a companionship and a connection which cannot be blossomed with human beings. Anyhoo...thank you so much for reading. I am always grateful!
L
author commentRoseBlack
Mon, 2022-10-17 18:22
So much truth
In what you say. We don't take the time to enjoy our surroundings, breathe in the air and enjoy the sites before us. A trip to the Grand Canyon sounds wonderful! Good write.
~RoseBlack~
RoseBlack
Mon, 2022-10-17 18:22
So much truth
In what you say. We don't take the time to enjoy our surroundings, breathe in the air and enjoy the sites before us. A trip to the Grand Canyon sounds wonderful! Good write.
~RoseBlack~
Lavender
Mon, 2022-10-17 18:36
Hello, RoseBlack!
Yes, you are right - just take time to breathe in the air!
Thank you so much!
L
author commentRosewood Apothecary
Mon, 2022-10-17 21:24
You are so good
The stream is fire today. This is so beautiful and so sad and so old. Old like the canyon. The struggle to know thyself without distraction.
So good,
Tim
P.S. maybe write something lousy once in a blue moon so I can actually suggest edits.
Lavender
Mon, 2022-10-17 22:24
Hi, Tim!
Thank you for your kind words, my amazing friend and kindred poet.
L
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