Massive carp break the surface of the large retreatant pond from below, barn swallows nip at it from above.

Constellations of ripples expand like impermanent tree rings

Braid through each other like ghosts and then settle into stillness.

The tall trees and clouds quiver and waver upside down

and then settle into stillness.

Bullfrogs roar at the morning chill, cacophonous birds blare with gossip, and the Abbey bells ring with joy.

(written May 30, 2015)