How to Wish
Lean into your grandmother's rocking chair,
peer beyond the shadowy sycamore arms.
Imagine silver threads connecting
the stars as they whistle with the crickets.
Wait for evening clouds to pull
across the moon. Remember voices
of childhood, your mother and father.
Feel the heaviness of a pending rain
drag along the mountains. Inhale
scents of jasmine through the bungalow rails.
Fold your shawl tightly across your heart,
watch a candle flicker in the window.
Now wish.
(first published in Foliate Oak)