Read four pieces of poetry by Mark Tulin with a thoughtful focus on the human body, mind, and spirit, including “August Breath,” “Bonfire,” and “Sustainable.”
— https://www.themindfulword.org/2020/poems-tulin-august-breath/
POEMS BY MARK TULIN: Bonfire, August Breath and more
MARK TULIN·
Bonfire
We light this fire
with planks of driftwood
on cool Ventura nights
hearing the ocean roar
like our youthful passion
that will never fizzle out,
a desire that will last
for an eternity
The bonfire lights up the sky
with resurrecting fire,
turning old ideas
into hopeful beginnings
Another log onto the fire,
to build up our spirits
to purify our bodies,
our minds set free.
Today
I can’t quite catch the wave,
not breaking right today
I climb the hill, hop the swell
only to fall backward
I can paddle and kick
to take me further out to sea
but still, come up empty
as the crest quickly subsides
Sometimes, it’s like grasping for straws,
waves breaking too early,
not enough maritime energy
Today, the big wave wasn’t meant to be.
August Breath
On the cement of my city sidewalk,
I avoided stepping on the cracks
as I skipped to the schoolyard
to play ball games with my friends
I lacked the confidence
of my older brother
who believed that he led
a remarkable life
He wanted to teach me his secrets,
but I waited for the sun,
the blooming of summer flowers
and running around imaginary bases
It was the sweet August breath
and not my older brother
that made me feel good inside,
like eating that first ice cream cone.
Sustainable
I am sustainable
regardless of how others
think or behave,
or what paths they take
My body stays strong
no matter how many
misguided souls
attempt to block my path
My heart stays warm,
despite the many political
mistakes, or how much
damage was done
My voice stays true
regardless of the excuses
that others make,
or the foolish words they speak
My spirit stays the same
even as I grow old,
my sight is gone, hearing poor
I will remain unchanged.
Crow On The Wire 
I enjoyed all four of your poems, Mark. It seems the older I get, the more appreciative I am of mindfulness. When I was younger, I didn’t have the patience for it.
Me, too. I didn’t know what it meant. Now it’s hard to get along with people who aren’t mindful.
I know what you mean. It makes dealing with nonense at work very difficult.
Beautiful poems, Mark. Bonfire was especially resonant. Happy New Year. 🙂
Much thanks. Wishing you much peace and good luck.
Reblogged this on By the Mighty Mumford.
Have a happy new year!
YES SIR!