Things happen but I know them not unless
they touch a special place in mind or flesh
and add another kindling piece to dress
the altar fires that finally refresh.

Whatever I can think or say or do
will narrow down the things that after come
and tint my own creation false or true
and paint myself a figure smart or dumb.

Ideas sometimes fill my restless brain
and most are lost to accidental noise
but now and then the stronger few remain
and of those few a fewer still are joys.

Refreshing fire must burn the base away
to make a space for future craft display.

by Robert Stone, Robert Stone, 21 February 2010