I just discovered a new poet on the website of Commonweal, Samuel Menashe. With short, even cryptic poems, he captures some essential dimension of life which I think Ram Dass had in mind decades ago when he coined the expression, “Be here now.” Here is a sample of his work, entitled “Rue”:
For what I did
And did not do
And do without
In my old age
Rue, not rage
Against that night
We go into,
Sets me straight
On what to do
Before I die—
Sit in the shade,
Look at the sky
Sitting in the shade and looking at the sky is really good advice, though I would suggest a dollop of the lovely sunshine here and there! Momma nature is so gracious and loving, though culture teaches us to live in the past and/or future and avoiding the loveliness of, “being here now.”

Lew, today’s poem, 29 February was a Gift. Thank You. Dean is 92 now and in 3d stage dementia, I am sole caretaker, he fell twice this week, decisions must be made….I’m healthy and able to handle most of his needs, but if I get sick we’ll both be in trouble! Keep up the good work with your words and wisdom. Fondly, Sue C.
LikeLike
Oh thank you so much! I’m so sorry to hear about your situation with Dean. Bless both of you. And that is not idle “Christian-eze”; I really mean it. My heart is heavy for you. This life “thingy” is challenging, even before we enter into “aging.” I’m gonna send you an email…hoping I have your current email address. So good to hear from you
LikeLike
Lovely!
LikeLike
Thank you!
LikeLike