Always Take a Dog

Go out walking.

In some part of every day,

step into the waiting arms

of the sky and whisk away—

but always take a dog,

so that you have something to follow.

 

Stroll or saunter,

steam up hills, thoughts rumbling

through your head like bees

bent on their own courses—

but always take a dog,

so you can watch how he chooses

which path to take.

 

Absorb the light:

the sun-splayed distance,

the close, soft dampness

of a cloudy day—

but always take a dog,

so you can see how

the wind moves through his fur.

 

Be alert for what the day

might offer you: a gull, a penny,

the pale thumbprint of moon—

but always take a dog,

so you can heed how

his nose moves from side to side,

seeking unexpected treasure.