Genie Nakano

Long Long Ago

I was in love with him . . . the man in the purple robes with the shaven head and ever lasting serene smile of tranquility, abbot of a Buddhist Monastery – celibate since childhood.

In meditations I imagine leading the abbot to my fire-monkey mind is what you call it. The sermons on dharma and the eight-fold path keeps my hands and thoughts tied.

Ten years later, I learn the abbot fell in love with a layperson, gave up his robes and is now a whirling dervish.

upside down
floating in the pond
the yellow lotus

Previously Published in Bottle Rockets #26 2012