the test

the test

Does this path have a heart? If it does, the path is good; if it doesn't, it is of no use.
—Carlos Castaneda

if only my parents
had taught me
to question in this way
could have saved
time and suffering
would have sidestepped
two marriages
some spiritual paths
and a few uncertain
friendships

they did their best
were generous
and mostly kind
but not pliant
or responsive
too much judgment
not enough regard for
who children were

life bucked
and buckled me
found my heart path
taught it to my son