how the river flows

I climbed the rocky hill to carve lines into poems

we left the doctor an hour ago...

out patient lunch trays,DNRs

I look down on the water

no surprise to see you

on that bench we both know

how the river flows

your blue shirt

my legs crossed like yours

I call you while waving, "look up!"

you answer and laugh, "I found my hat and my coat!"

winter trees resting roots can you see the lake in my throat?

as his mind comes and goes

ocean tides and changing skies

your life is galaxy, pops sunsets, moments, and stone

I'll always bang those drums with you in shared disgust for thrones

my father, my friend let us take softer steps

with you, here with you

imperfect and never alone

how the river flows

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written on Dec 31 2025 Jonathon Stalls