lavender, petals

earth. solidity that is the only

constant, sometimes. breathing

the scents, without the pollution, the pure

soil and heaviness that lifts the thoughts. opposites

balance: the feather-light

leaf alighting on a stone. in contact with

these, grabbing with empty fists, abate the

turmoil within the mind. I see my lost

students, who wish for a connection, or

peace, gathering bouquets. while I

rush, forward, intent on the end goal, a young

girl stops. she gathers lavender flower

petals in her open palms. a man barraged by

paranoia gathers wild rosemary

stalks. these gifts from the world are lovingly collected

and left, like prayers, for those in

search of together.