It's Still Life

The Old Woman Delivers Wisdom in Small, Reusable Jars

The old woman stirs her tea
with a cinnamon stick
that once doubled as a wand,
then tucks it
into her apron pocket,
right beside a raisin
that gave up being lunch.

She says philosophy can fit
on the head of a pin,
but you’ll have to squint.

Rule 4.
Be a blossom.
Roots are opinionated,
and vines are twisted.

Rule 4.1
Sweetness is there, if you can find it.
Jam on fingers.
Chocolate on toast.
So kiss your bruises
and tell them,
“See? You’re delicious.”

So, cup your heart
like it’s tea in a storm.

Let the day melt on your tongue.
And know that you’re adored,

by crows,
by chaos,
and by the quiet parts of the world
that clap softly
when you’re not looking.