James Moore Poet Narrative

Notes About The Poem

Sitting With The Wood Dragon

("Night Sky Serpent", 2013, original pen and ink)

Sitting With The Wood Dragon

For over forty-five years 
I’ve been meditating on and off, 
Some times a lot, 
Some times not at all
But as I sit this New Year’s Day 
Welcoming in the Wood Dragon
I think maybe I’ve never
Actually meditated at all
Unlike riding a bicycle 
Sitting observing my mind 
And its thoughts today
Doesn’t feel familiar 
I know what to do
But can’t remember 
Ever having done it before
As if the person who did it then
Wasn’t the same as the one now
And it makes me feel like a fool
Or fake or better yet
Simply a beginner
Who sits once again
With his beginner’s mind
In the moment
A dragon
Powerful and challenging
Waiting to be tamed

(2/11/24)

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Nancy Kaufman February 11, 2024 at 7:14 AM Hi James, I enjoyed this soul searching poem today. I also had several earlier years trying to meditate in a heart based system called Sahaj Marg and made a few trips to India to see the spiritual teacher in person and also when he came here to the US. Our minds are monkeys on the back some times and I am not the most disciplined person. I think it's always a process of beginning. At least it has been for me. Enjoyed! James Moore February 11, 2024 at 7:37 AM Yes, I like that Nancy, "always a process of beginning."

DM Babbit February 11, 2024 at 6:46 AM And the dragon rises when least expected. Loved your rendition, I too, have been in and out the adventures of living in time.