Mine To Keep

Do I reach for understanding, or is knowing quite enough Or deem then that important if the difference smooth or rough Do I understand a mountain or the bear that lives within Or just know that it belongs there and the mystery that it brings Do I understand the ocean or the waves that break so high Or just hear its thunder crashing and not need to wonder why Do I understand what time is its symbols—what they mean Or understand a life laid down in battles unforeseen Do I understand a memory or just smile when’er it calls Or understand tomorrow when today my life befalls Do I understand the anger or just control it when it barks Or understand the danger sometimes lurking in the dark Do I understand the words I write when I’m shaken from my sleep Or understand the excuses loaned —all reasons mine to keep (Villanova Pennsylvania: June, 2016)