*****

Recorded Reading (1:29): https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/pywjprrdaw7pbazsex1ew/Sweetness-of-Solitude.mp3?rlkey=ww6een4q02cy9hh6utiv148zy&dl=0

*****

Sweetness of Solitude

No need to smile when I’m in too much pain
No need for happiness display a bent
Over every compromised partial gain
By strenuous successive increment

No need express only just gratitude
Nor any inconvenience bemoan
To be suspected of the attitude
Of one seen as jaded and selfish grown

Free to accept each present compromise
Which life dictates disabled comfort of
In dignified — that is, in silent — wise
Willingly sacrificed for what I love

No need to give instruction, nor remind
Aught willfull ignorant in near surround
Of basic practices of spirits kind,
No need to listen to malicious sound

Projected contemplative mind into
No need maintain the wants of all in view
No need minister others’ needs unto —
There are no needy others near around

The world outside this window in its throes
Of misery may cry for peace and groan
This poet mid the chaos calmly goes
Permitted meditative space — alone!

*****

Until removal of the stalker/targeter/vandal/arsonist following her allows her to approach any landlord ~ even for a private parking space ~ and to begin once again to create professional connections and to rebuild her life, this poet presently lives homeless and at a fraction of her nation’s poverty level ~ still working seven days a week to contribute to her society, however.

Arts patrons may visit http://www.UgiftABLE.com , using code #72D-31S, or choose to send a personal check to the poet’s ABLE account. It takes about two weeks for the poet to be notified of your patronage.

Thank you for supporting quality in the fine arts.