Cynthia Anderson

An Open Heart

Do I need surgery to open my heart? After everything I’ve been through?

I dread the rest of this dream. Even if it’s only a metaphor, I may not survive the scalpel.

But my guide is so kind. He shows me the hospital, circling the shore of a vast lake, the buildings painted deep, true colors—and I think, My room will overlook the water, and a wave of gratitude breaks through me.

overnight drizzle
I forgive
as best I can

---

About the Author

Cynthia Anderson has published 11 poetry books, most recently a collection of haiku and senryu titled Full Circle. Her haibun have appeared in MacQueen’s Quinterly, Drifting Sands Haibun, Shamrock, Failed Haiku, and Femku. She lives in the Mojave Desert near Joshua Tree National Park. Find more at cynthiaandersonpoet.com.