The Pond (KS) - cc photo J. Delp “It comes the very moment you wake up each morning. All your wishes and hopes for the day rush at you like wild animals. And the first job each morning consists simply in shoving them all back; in listening to that other voice, taking that other point … Continue reading Come In Out of the Wind
The Middle of Nowhere
Rural Road (KS) - cc photo J. Delp In the middle of nowhere.The road, travels straight and narrow. A lone tree stands sentinel.Watchman of the the path and passersby. A winter breeze rustles the prairie grass.Wispy clouds paint the sky. The silent noise of nature a peaceful elixir.In the middle of nowhere.
The Winter Flower (poem and picture)
The Winter Flower - cc photo J. Delp Beauty presents in all colors. The vibrant shades of spring and summer.The warmth of autumn orange and yellow.The muted tones of winter. A flower through the seasons.From radiant red to brilliant bronze.Breathtaking in every way. Beauty presents in all colors.
Country (a poem)
Copper at the Pond - cc photo by J. Delp Country is space to roam.Crisp air to breathe.Dry grass rattling.Brooding clouds.Serenity. Country is ponds and dogs.The smell of smoke.Fishing and wildlife.Dirt roads.Adventure. Country is slow and quiet.Long walks to nowhere.Wide open spaces.Time outside.Peace.
5 Reasons I Deleted Social Media
Rock and a Hard Place - cc photo by J. Delp I recently deleted all social media apps off my phone. It was an impulsive move — the result of an iPhone notification informing me that I had spent an average of three hours and eight minutes a day on my phone during the week … Continue reading 5 Reasons I Deleted Social Media
A River Escape
Fall on the Lower Salt River - cc photo J. Delp Lately I find I am making frequent retreats to the river. Searching for calm and quiet in the chaos and clanging of daily life. Cubby Waiting for the Cast I toss a fishing pole in my truck, take along my hiking and fishing buddy … Continue reading A River Escape
Fast Doesn’t Have to Be Normal
Blur - cc photo by J. Delp On Thursday evening I was driving home from Payson. It was dark and the roads were wet from an afternoon of rain showers. I was in no hurry. I had a soda, snacks, and was listening to my “Kansas 2021” Spotify playlist. At the edge of town, I … Continue reading Fast Doesn’t Have to Be Normal
Embrace the Scars
The Tree - cc photo by J. Delp I have a favorite spot in the Arizona wilderness. It’s not too difficult to find, but I’m not going to tell you where it is, because then it might become your favorite place. I’m selfish that way. The path to my favorite spot is marked by a … Continue reading Embrace the Scars
An Education Policy Parable
Tortoise was an admired member of the community. A strong, beautifully polished, and ornate shell provided protection from the elements and those who would do harm. Powerfully muscled legs -- thick as tree trunks -- allowed Tortoise to toil tirelessly and overcome obstacles. Beneath the shell beat an empathetic heart. All of the animals were … Continue reading An Education Policy Parable
5 Ways to Finish Strong
Today is the final day of our spring break. I am cautiously optimistic about the upcoming quarter and the end of our school year. With regard to the pandemic, we may not be out of the woods yet, but it appears that we are on a path that will lead us there. Case numbers are … Continue reading 5 Ways to Finish Strong