Poems: Reflections from a Japanese Incense Ritual
========================================================================== Hands, though washed, contain scents of day. Ancient tradition overshadowed by Coconut Verbena and the fade of dying rose, placed in the shaky hands of a child attempting to remember a time she has not lived. ========================================================================== Evergreen's defense against pine beetles. Mica plate set atop ash from flames. Reminder of childhood. ========================================================================== Attempt to rid self of lotion makes attemptee feel like a cricket. Laughs from the Koh-do master bring joy. Remembrance of steps, achieved, and incense remains in it's place. Success. ========================================================================== (image: Cristina Jaleru – lifeofvenus.com)