The Green Gate
Jim Reiman
the green gate hangs crooked on one hinge
attached at the shoulder with an iron ring
to a standing stone post
the gate is open and tilts slightly
a sweeping arm gesturing
to enter rather than keep out
a short way beyond the gate
a small sign says
stay on the path
a message
perhaps
words of wisdom
to help you find your way
though it’s only a furrow of foot trampled ground
twisting upwards
it will take you to where you want to go
and once there
you’ll know where you’ve come from
and beyond
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James Reiman is a writer, poet and musician living in rural Vermont. He recently published a collection of poems entitled "Reflections", soon to be available from Cyberwit Publications. He has performed traditional music in Vermont for many years, and has now focused his creative energies on poetry. He believes in the restorative power of images through words, and that a good poem is a healing prayer.
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