it's all too much

it’s all too much 

cascading bad news
harsh weight
pressing down

fires, floods, 
democracy destruction
signs of the end times

what’s a kind heart to do?

our dog seeks me out
rests her long nose
on my knee 

holding my gaze— 
I bury my head 
deep in her ruff

breathe in doggy scent
comforting
accept her invite
to walk

keep my focus close
note what she attends
who left their mark

she raises her head
sound of hawk screeching
buries her nose in a lily

my heart rate slows
belly softens
this right here