The first time around I noticed the trees,
Autumn has been arriving in fits and starts and the colors
Stood out in the midst of so many still green.
The second time around the trio of ducks,
Conversed noisily amongst themselves as I approached,
Declaring the water a safer place to be.
The third time around the water itself,
Both rippling from below and reflecting from above,
That which is and is not seen.
-Karri Temple Brackett
October 18, 2023