When – A Diversion of Desires
In some ways this poem is a playful, even cynical, swipe at our human life and our discontent. It can also be read on a deeper level. A longing, to linger, to be more present. More present to ourselves, to each other and to the vicissitudes that life gifts to us in the here and now.
When – A Diversion of Desires
When we are
empty
We hunger
to be full.
When we are
Full
We wish
To be empty.
Just another bit
I’m sure I can have more
The recipe is a hit
Why had I not tried it before?
When we are
Alone
We hanker
For intimacy.
When we are
In a crowd
We search
For solitude.
The silence deafens quiet ears
That hearken for a voice
The milling crowd fuels my fears
This racket was not my choice!
When we are
Caught in the complex
We reminisce
On simpler days.
When we are
In the simple
We want to
Complicate things.
I’m caught in a bind yet again
However will it unravel?
This tedious cleaning is such a bore
I think I’ll go and travel!
When in
The wind of winter
We shiver
For still summer sun.
When under scorching rays
We want the crisp
Cool winter air.
We abhor
Hypocrisy in others
Yet cherish
Mysterious paradox
In ourselves.
When busy
We writhe
For rest.
When unoccupied
We plunge
Into mindless activity.
When we are
Here
We want to be there
Anywhere!
When will
We learn
To be
Content?
When I look into your face,
Or gaze upon that scene
I’m transported from within my place
To another where I’ve been.
I’ve been there when I’m captivated
Enchanted by the beauty,
I’ve been there when I’m motivated
When transcendence returns newly.
Yet somehow I struggle to be present
To you, to me, to all,
Our busy minds have us sent
To other longings and another call.
I hope I learn to pause, to see
The wonder in you and me,
The sheer delight in all around
The present moment that sets us free.
Simon C.J Falk 22 March 2015
Simon's still stanza 