Genesis - Bob Jones

[Lawrence Robinson]

Genesis

In getting started
he forgot his courage
forgot to think or not to think
forgot time and space
and what comes before or after
forgot how little is done well
and how what is gushes forth unbidden
when least expected
forgot his stubbornness
to carry on as one carries on
because that’s how one does it
forgot to look hither and thither
over this shoulder or that
forgot to be definitive and aggressive
as if no impediment stood in his way
forgot selfhood and history
meaning and perplexity
defeat and inspiration
elation and victory
forgot to forget
the tiny azalea blossom 
still pink in late November 
beneath the barren plum tree
the only color for miles around.

	- Bob Jones