Writing Retreat

****Awarded the Rain Bird 2010 Kolekolea Honorable Mention in Poetry


I look forward

each month to return to
Hale Akoakoa
at Windward Community College
for my regular shot of
Lillian,
my special coffee mug
brimming
with her enthusiasm

compelled
to share
listen and
be challenged.

To explore-- this strange new country
called writing,
jam-packed with strong verbs, and syntax
bubbling from a practiced source.

To discover my own special voice.

As I venture
into uncharted
atriums and lanais
sheltered by banyan trees,
while grinding on
chocolate chip cookies
cantaloupes
and cherries.

To boldly go
on a
lyrical expedition,
serenaded
by
cellos
chickens
and a heart stopping
rendition
of cock a doodle doo.