Wiping Down the Skis with Flannel Cloths

LAST DAY ON THE MOUNTAIN

WITH GRAND KIDS

This afternoon we put skis away.

We wipe skis clean with flannel cloth.

The four of them, and me.

Yesterday's sunshine and cold

on memory's fresh face, burnished.

This year they found their way

without me. Mountain maps,

back packs, packed lunches,

re-uniting at High Camp,

taking care of the other, and time.

We don't put away time.

Time is the mountain we ski.

Time is what opens without talk.

Jim Bodeen

4 April 2017