Jeff McCallum

When I am not besieged by politics I am preoccupied with my father's impending demise.

The Garden

After a careful bathing

and while still in my robe,

an equally careful shave

perfects the preparation

When the pre-anesthesia slips into the IV

completing the process

I feel raked like the sand in a Zen Garden

peaceful and perfect

There is a wind that will come

generated by the storm that descends on the OR

as soon as I am under

Regardless of the results

I am living art

fixed and flowing

Sand that will be replenished

or rearranged in harmony with the universe

After a careful bathing

and while still nude

I am shaved with equal care

made-up and dressed

When my body slips into the casket

completing the ceremonial preparation

I feel nothing

I am a Buddhist Garden

peaceful and perfect

There is a wind that will come

as soon as I am under

but I am living art

fixed and flowing

Sand that will be replenished

or rearranged in harmony with the universe