Breathing in, Breathing Out

Breathing in, the steady calls of creek frogs before dawn

Breathing in, the sound of surf at the beach

Breathing in, the rising chorus of birdsong at the first sign of light

Breathing in, the mist moving through pines

Breathing in, setting out orioki and the aromas of breakfast

Breathing in, the creaking of rafters as the zendo warms

Breathing in, a ceremony for planting the season's first seeds

Breathing in, a walk through the garden into the hills

Breathing in, afternoon tea and conversation

Breathing in, heavy rain on the zendo roof

Breathing out, the close of the retreat, sitting in the sun.