By Zachary Marotte

Ascend the steps of clairvoyance,

gaze into the living water, where the eyes of one’s soul are given vision.

The rolling hills contain many secrets, treasures hid from humanity's prying eyes.

Encased in the heart of being, such modes of life and love still survive, but rarey contrive to subsist on the wisdom of the ancients.

Far beyond the distant stars, a silent sculptor sits, contemplating when to fashio a more complete truth, a more accessible lifeline.

The jade serpent gloats as it observes the nectarine hanging precariously from the bough of a decaying cedar, soon to fall, quick to perish.

A mustard seed, resuscitated by tears from the clouds, climbs the decrepit cedar, cradling the nectarine, thwarting the motives of the invidious serpent.

Branches, leaves; springs of life burst forth from within the cedar, exposing a vibrant ecosystem inside the seemingly empty shell.

From darkness to light, the land expands, a natural bridge between separate philosophies.

Whether frozen by the breath of winter or unlocked by the rejuvenating

rays of the sun, each thread completes the tapestry, binding the sinews

Of life ever closer.

Each moment, breathe in a sample of existence, entertain

the thoughts, deepen the mystery which resides in each of us,

connect with the Artist at all points of the compass and all portions

of the day, the benefactor or joy, persistent in creativity.