Washing up in the sink and slightly mesmerized by the suds and the swirl of water down the DRAIN, I have a moment of TOTAL panic. Am I ABOUT to lose Aunt Martha’s bracelet? Was that the clasp giving way? I pull my hands out, sloshing water and suds onto the floor. Sweet relief: the bracelet is intact, each small TOPAZ colored bead still strung on the gold chain

Georg’ann

Searching head to toe
for signs of HEART failing
Noting the swollen feet, labored breath, fatigue
most haunting the PASTY pallor.
We watch birds, ADOPT new ways of being
continue to light candles
leave flowers and TOPAZ
at the foot of the golden Buddha

Heather