Living in the golden-shadowed
window reflection through bam-
boo, such is the layered tone

of the rest of my day, nose
sore and red, I am urged
by friends to celebrate (this fall

day fifty and slow, so sunny).
Though my sentinel self rises
from the seat it sits in– mind

released from body, you have
fulfilled your duty– stay home.

(originally published in The Wise Owl, Winter 2023)