Untitled Tanka Poem

I.

Broken cement steps

The ancient remains of then

The forgotten tribe

Pieces crumble away

Washed away to cleanse my feet

II.

Anchor plant cascading bush

Birthing out of the trunk

Creating a comfort

Shade and protection from grey

The last leaf touching her feet

III.

Joyful, golden bees

Swarm the sun soaked verbenaceae --verbe (Nay)(Cee)

I see you dancing

Flying, life-giving insects are free

I am happy for your liberty

IV.

Red Aloe soothes me

My ancestors kissed them all

Africa, my love

Abuk soothes my soul

And heals all my sick scars

V.

Water, my healer

Thick, rich, soothing, comforting

Pours from the center

The black lava, Black beauty

Rising to the top, flooding my steps, lighting the way

VI.

The October wind

Tastes like hope for my old soul

It is bittersweet

The Autumn breeze and me

Crestfallen beginnings, past

VII.

The Knives of the Sotol

Reach past me to wound my foes

My demons fall

I lean in to offer thanks

Her sharp edges prick me and I bleed.