We all have streams to ford in our lifetime. Some are shallow creeks with easy stepping stones. They offer little in the way of experience. Others, more challenging and daunting, are like raging currents, daring you to cross. The bigger, more demanding streams build character, memories that last for years, and foster wisdom if you are so inclined to receive the message.
I offer this collection of work created sporadically over many years. I’ve included author’s notes on each piece, to give insight for what inspired the work. I have purposefully left out most punctuation, forcing you to focus, perhaps to find your own meter. It consists of 35 works, mostly in free verse, and the significance of that number is subtly revealed within.
Each of us upon occasion, come across streams to ford. There may be a bridge; there may be stepping stones; there may be only two choices – cross and get wet, or turn away from it. I’ve gotten wet; I’ve nearly drowned metaphorically once in a while, and other times, I’ve simply turned away. I dedicate this work then, to you who have faced and continue to face your own streams, gained personal insight, and made your own fateful decisions.
Streams to Ford 