If you’re looking for a hero
find him in the afternoon
lazing under a river willow
line dangling in the water
offering a worm with no hook.
If you’re reaching for a destiny
stretch no farther than your fingers
clutching the worn yellow pencil
snipping the scissors along paper
pasting the colored picture
on the vanilla page.
If you’re searching for fame
find your reflection in the eyes
of that squirrel you feed
the one who lives peacefully
atop the mulberry tree.
If you desire occupation
count the constellations
in the bright sky tonight
or take a census of the wrens
who warble in the tangled bush
beside the garden path.
If enlightenment you seek
talk to the old elm in the park
who stands her ground so courteously
who understands the moon and sun
who answers you without a word.
if you thirst for life eternal
reconnoiter with the cat
who watches all the neighborhood
astride the alley garbage cans.
And if you’ve any doubts remain
dissolve them in a tablespoon
of steaming tapioca pudding
end of all desirous yearning
quiet of apprehension
calmer of the passioned brain.