(Lithia Park, Ashland, Oregon)

Not until we rise after sitting
on a bench by the pond for
a good half hour talking,

as we do, about so many things
in our lives, does it strike me
that we have been reflecting

on the past while focusing on
the present reflections of
venerable trees in still water.

Looking closer, we see upside
down people we will never meet
on the opposite side of the pond.

And I wonder if they are in this
moment also contemplating their
mirrored selves—the people,

that is—the trees having no need
to do anything but stand tall,
offer their leafy parasols

to creatures seeking shelter
and shade on this hot day,
and simply be.