I’ve been writing poetry since college (mid 50s).  Fortunately everything before 1974 has been lost.  Since I don’t engage in good practices such as setting aside a time every day to write, I’m occasionally surprised at how much I’ve accumulated.  Some of my published poetry appeared in Poetica Magazine.  The rest is out of print.  I’m Professor Emeritus of Anthropology at the University of Louisville. I’ve just submitted a manuscript for a chapbook.
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In the Forest


They’re all the same: soaking in the sun
drinking water from the rivers or
sky, playing host to small animals.

They’re all different: maple, oak, and elm,
multi-shaped leaves, dappled in varied
patterns, striving to reach growth and life.

And we follow their lead to find health
and success in surviving trials.

That’s not all; they stand tall and serene,
silent, but whispering with the wind, 
forming air furrows, reaching for peace.

Sometimes they fall, but their seeds regrow
and give us new roots for our efforts.