Driving at Golden Hour in Summer

There is a dangerous freedom
found in a moving car
at sunset.
Imposing, intoxicating,
the windows overflow
with gold.
When your music is loud enough,
when it swells like syrup,
breathe deeply.
Let it all well up within you.
It will overpower,
consume you.
Let the corners of your mouth curl
slowly up your wet face.
Perfect bliss.
You will be tempted to fear death.
If you must, make it brief.
It will pass.
In this fear, you won't fear what comes,
but what you'll leave behind.
Breathe deeply.
Wrapped in this holy catharsis,
you'll learn to carry on
peacefully.

A Sonnet for Lucy

The joy you achieve spreads like an illness

An honest illustration of spirit

With jubilance, you refuse to suppress

A tail powered by love and by merit

Genuine devotion greets my greetings

Benevolence never subsides nor drifts

The moments feel like reunion meetings

And, this is how I know that I was missed

No matter the day, my mood, or my health

Your overflowing vigor comforts me

Reminding me that optimism sells

And being a teacher of the lively

Your lessons’ will be with me till the end

Life’s much sweeter with you as my friend