There is no reason why
it has to be
one way or the other
You make Exceptions
all the time

Reach inside
the dark places
With eyes closed,
what was it you were hoping to find?

The smooth knot, of reason
pulled tight, on both sides
claim-jumping
justified, and called agreement
In time, what else
will we frame as compromise?

To be disappointed
first, we had to decide
to tug, and tug back
on the tethering line

Back of the Page

Usually I write a bit about the themes and origin of a poem, but today I’m feeling like leaving it even more open to interpretation. In the last few weeks, writing a full Post didn’t feel right, and in the meantime I’ve been sharing things on Substack Notes. It’s been a fun way to share pictures, poems, and re-stacking things I’ve enjoyed reading. Here are a few highlights:

I Hope You Find A Better Job Soon

This photo is from one of my postal routes today. As I ride by, the voices play in my head. The woman from two days ago, in passing, as I’m delivering her mail: “I bet you had a different career, before. Well, I hope you find a better job

Van MirandaVan Miranda

“I Hope You Find A Better Job Soon” was a postcard I shared from a day on my route delivering mail. The expectations we see projected onto us from other people, and the beauty that surrounds us when we accept where we are.

Out of Nowhere

By who knows who

The Semi-Serious ViewSilvio Castelletti

Silvio Castelletti has been sharing some beautiful writing this month, and I particularly enjoyed this story. This quote resonates in light of the feelings of chaos and change swirling around us.

just stop

an open letter to those who ask about marriage and babies

Talking to MyselfCaroline

Caroline (from Talking to Myself) wrote a lovely piece about connection - are the questions we asking leaving enough space to discover and appreciate the person in-front of us?

Finally, I'll leave you with a poem about leaves transitioning to Fall:

The Falling Tones

Everywhere I look green, is blazing from red, to brown Color spun, full circle now, cascading down The summer rays melt, running with feet, never touching the ground light, held safe and breathed clean as November water 🌬️This Post has made a journey from Substack (where it was originally published)

Van MirandaVan Miranda

Thanks for reading!

Van