Author Archives: fleeburd
Loss of a family
I miss my parents tonight. Growing up a Jehovah’s Witness they were my entire world. Our little congregation was all I knew. My father, a pilot, a machinist, a pirate, a fascinating big-hearted man. My mother a hippie, nature-loving, passionate, creative artist. All of course within the confines of the expectations of the religion. MyContinue reading “Loss of a family”
Snow in Texas …And thoughts on needing to NOT be needed
We haven’t had so much snow in this area in forty years I think. It’s charming and reminds me of being in Idaho this time last year. I think it’s beautiful even as it reminds me of what I left behind. I need to be not needed. More than I need water, or air. IContinue reading “Snow in Texas …And thoughts on needing to NOT be needed”
Leo
As a child I’d laze in sunbeams, My head on my chin as my teeth gnawed blades of grass from the garden Staring lost in the gaze of my mom’s regal Magnificent Leo We grew up together, he and I, on the lap of my mother, Two kittens drunk on the sweetened milk Of theContinue reading “Leo”
Reflections
This time last year I was with the love of my life, in Idaho, with snow piled around our little home. Her dad lived in the house next door, we were five minutes from natural springs and wild places, and life was good. Except it wasn’t. I’d left my child, my family, my community behindContinue reading “Reflections”
Lightly
Slowly lightly she creeps in stealthily Her claws around the pane Skin rough like the moon she slides Her heavy belly over the flagstones Breaths pushing ancient lungs she Is the wind wheezing gently over sweetgrass She is the first smile a girl makes She is hope knowing the sun shines to her again InContinue reading “Lightly”
Eclipse, December 21, 2010
It’s a goodbye….to see the shadows of this Earth eat up the moon tonight Early morning is so still and calm, the darkness of the water in the creek a mirror To the orb above, awaiting her cloak. Moon sighs down at us and smiles. The creek burbles, carrying on its life Little wriggling beings oblivious toContinue reading “Eclipse, December 21, 2010”
‘Tis the Season
Holiday season doesn’t mean anything to me. Or, rather, it doesn’t mean anything sweet, fun, cozy. It doesn’t mean family and warm fires, it doesn’t mean big meals and naps in front of football games on the TV with your extended family coming and going through the house. It doesn’t mean trees and lights, smellsContinue reading “‘Tis the Season”
A week of silence
Really for the most part, yes. After some extra time with my son over the holiday I’d not realized how exhausted I’d become. It’s not because of him in the least, he’s generous and kind, it’s because I’ve since childhood been an extreme introvert. This pandemic has made it far too easy to stay atContinue reading “A week of silence”
Do Not Be Domesticated
Do not be domesticated. You were born with the moon in your blood And owls know your true name. Howl in everything you do, even if it is silent. Leave wakes of energy behind you That smell of fresh rain and teardrops. Hidden wildlings recognize you, Shouldering out of the shadows, Nuzzling the folds ofContinue reading “Do Not Be Domesticated”
