Despite the deep drought,
seven dandelions bloom
against the stone wall.
Quivering
Little brown sparrow,
as you flit from branch to branch,
the oak tree quivers.
Shrine
In a wooded place,
a tiny shrine to Mary
houses garter snakes.
Buddha
Before the Buddha
mastered walking on water,
he sank fifty times.
After
after the party
a white linen tablecloth
dappled with red wine
Kite
A red silken kite
chases a frightened sparrow
through the clear blue sky.
Eyes
Little brown sparrow,
the cat and her black kitten
keep their eyes on you.
End
Little brown sparrow,
when I reach my journey’s end,
will you greet me there?
Sing
Little brown sparrow,
at my father’s funeral
you began to sing.
Guide
Little brown sparrow,
as the blind man taps his way,
guide him with your song.
