In college, I used to underline sentences that struck me, that made me look up from the page. They were not necessarily the same sentences the professors pointed out, which would turn up for further explication on an exam. I noted them for their clarity, their rhythm, their beauty and their enchantment.

~ Jhumpa Lahiri

The river was gold in the morning light, and quite enchanting. Charlie drank. Suzi waited. I watched three ducks paddle in place. I walked briskly. The sun rose over the tracks of the trestle bridge. It’s a short week, I have much to do before traveling, but I am relaxed after the busy weekend. The great Thanksgiving is behind me. At home I sit and work by the fire. The house is quiet, I can focus. My dear friend comes for a visit, tea by the fire, and we haven’t seen each other in two weeks, so it’s a welcome visit: we must tell all our holiday secret feelings to each other. Later, I write and publish my monthly newsletter today. (If you like, you can read it here.) Later, I start to feel headachy. I go out in the late afternoon, and, once again, the river light is gold. I look for the beavers, they are not yet out swimming into their evening work. Am I coming down with something? Tonight, I meet long distance with my poetry pals and I don’t bring a poem; my energy is low. I can’t think well about my own work, but I’m delighted to read and comment on their gorgeous, thoughtful poems and I’m grateful for our chatting and friendship and for being a first reader. We trust each other. And they understand and accept I don’t have something I want to share tonight. Perhaps I will sleep and feel better.

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