Poem of the Week: 12.21.23
"Walking Poem #7" by Ricky Novaes de Oliveira
WALKING POEM #7
by Ricky Novaes de Oliveira
A road paved before I was born I won't be last to stare out this window A shoe touches sole I trace stitches made somewhere far away A complex built before I could stand under it I wait in its dusking shade A song I have nothing to do with I sing it to myself A moment between the tracks and traffic I metronome each step A moon rising regardless of who still breathes I walk, I breathe, I am, I am, I am
Walks are moments for affirmations.
Thanks to my mother’s insistence growing up, I like going on walks. She always tries to get my fam to go on an after dinner stroll, especially after a big holiday meal. As a kid I groaned, and now I groan but get it. Moving and digesting and breathing and thinking are actions we take for granted, and walks help us to remember where we stand (and where we step to next).
“Walking Poem #7” is a brief mediation on affirming my position in life despite the contexts that swirl around me. Walking and trusting my path. I think this poem is more in the “idea” stage than the “finished” stage, but I also think poems can be unfinished ideas. Who knows.
I hope you take yourself on a nice walk soon, and maybe write down some thoughts as you go. Let your feet (or fingers) guide you.
Wishing you and yours warmth and love over the next week.
Merrily, Ricky
Your insistent mother loves this unfinished poem! I’m heading out for a walk in the rain. 😁 Like a morning meditation.