How to Love a Rock

Notice the maroon cirrus clouds against
the gray of her landscape, then each white spot—
stars that propel you into space. Express
what you see in her, how you love the way

she smells like grass and salt. Ask about her
properties, history, how she was picked
from the glacial waters of Lake Crescent
and brought across the land to be placed

in your palms. Ask to feel her smooth. Caress
till your thumb can find a home in her brook.
Be with her and share your day, how you jumped
into a river, came out ice. How you

worry now, let it go. Give her space to
say not words; then, when she’s ready, many.

Read more from Issue No. 23 or share on Twitter.