春雨
sweetest longed-for dream
bright Kyoto sights and sounds
gifted once again
the Kamo gently flowing
in this moment all is well
as brave as one is
going back is perilous
nothing is the same
carefree years in Kita-ku
only live in memory now
up in the mountain
Imperial villa inn
stately and serene
refuge from the dust and crowds
the tatami feels like home
(Yoshida Sanso)
wind swirls all around
with leaves against the lattice
welcome visitor
late night shadows on shoji
falling into deepest sleep
(Yoshida Sanso)
calligraphy lesson
my teacher fills me with awe
focused, calm, serene
I try to follow her brush
and fail at this yet again
(Yoshida Sanso)
was this once your place?
I do not feel your spirit
moving by the stream
did you wander down this path
sharing your scent with spring rain?
(Kyoto Gosho)
down through stormy clouds
the white heron has returned
to the quiet stream
gazing thoughtfully awhile
he greets me on the rooftop
(Gion Shirakawa)
Lea Millay
May 2024
l e a m i l l a y 