Tribute to Thich Nhat Hanh, January 2022.

the passing of a great monk
a gentle soul
a powerhouse of humanity
i am diminished by your loss
and uplifted by your example
peace is every step. 

you embraced life
welcomed every perception
saw the light in every thing
and now
you are that light
connecting us all
peace is every step. 

you lived and taught in a way 
that was illuminating
buddha came alive
through your words
through your pen
i was and am forever changed
peace is every step

Quiet and astounding
you were always there
thank you for showing us 
how to shine
with peace in every step.

numerous losses
will make us forget
will make us too numb
to receive the gift of grieving
a part of us will put up her arms
hide in her elbows
while the knees buckle
and run away

but
please 
stay