How loud the blackbird sings
above this languid stream!
While unseen smaller birds respond,
an otter and I dream.

The otter on the other side,
and I here in my shade,
and flocks of tiny birds on rocks,
comprise the cast that’s made

this afternoon’s performance grand –
like that of yesterday –
and those of every day for aeons.
Sunlight and shadows play

at dancing, while the current dawdles
over ancient rocks.
Oh, everything is perfect here.
We have no need for clocks.

We have no need for anything
that is not with us here.
The blackbird and the otter see
the water’s clean and clear.

The shade that aids siestas
and the burbling creek sounds team
together, and we all unite,
and give thanks. Then we dream.