the ocean

here everyone takes it for granted.

but i know, the great huge pacific

lurks behind the pretty houses and the good restaurants and 

yes,

even this university,

the ocean

where sea serpents and huge weird swimming things

can spring up

arc through the air

and yep, disappear into a dream.

i have only seen glimpses

except the window looks from the plane

dense, fecund, dark and so

beautiful.

maybe i will have 

the least little chance

to put my toes into

the cold salty richness.

~~~

first there was the country's center

where i took no pictures

then montana

or so says my iphoto

 and then the great blue thing

 no mistaking it for lake country

 i have a tiny dorm room

overlooking a parking lot

 i have two dear ones

now in the flesh

persons made real after being etherial 

dear jean and bryan

 and a bombing 

(yarn)

that took place in the student union.

the university of victoria

in the not so but still far away.

where i have the privilege to teach shifu

to amazing and talented students.