Little Ben

Little Ben is easily confused with a same

Little zen but that’s because his body’s small

And because the little zen he has contained

Within him stands straight and just as tall.

Those who are as worldly and as wise

Don’t find it hard to wonder between the two

As when we ponder a bright set of eyes

And the joyfulness found in them. Wide and china blue,

His wily saucer eyes look up and down

Then left to right as he attempts to gauge the length

Of the world so that he might know just how

To bend some elbowed arms in a cradled strength

And wrap her in embrace. But with the upturned

Corners of his smile he pushes her away.

But this is so he can see clear the joy she's earned.

He’ll always have his homing beam lest she feel astray.

Little Ben gives a playful push and the world comes

Swinging back. And the swinging forth brings

Another push and the world and he are one.

He has given her as a gift, lively loving wings.

But remember, Ben, on life’s playground, always

Keep her close. If she knows enough you are a friend

She ought to do the same. So let her swing but raise

A hand so she too gives wing to you and your budding zen.