RSVP after Naomi Shihab Nye - The Art of Disappearing “when they invite you to the party, remember what parties are like before answering” I’m sorry. I will not be able to attend. No, I do not have other plans. It’s just that the rice will need soaking and anyhow, I do not want to come. A creek has a different cadence depending on where you stand, how far, and in what direction. Did you know this? If you invert your head to the ground, the creek has a second language. Anyhow, you do not want me at your party. I wouldn’t know what to talk about. The song of spring, say the poets, is of renewal. I have seen otherwise – blossoms practically beg for the ground. Don’t make me repeat my chronology of updates, my rote opinions, my well worn stories. I’d rather sing with the creek. I’d rather dream in the grass, count the leaves, disappear. I’d rather tell you about cooking rice. You can tell it is done soaking when it has absorbed enough water to surface. Did you know it cooks softer this way? You don’t even need a rice cooker. Just a pinch of salt, cover with water, low heat, fifteen minutes. Let sit. Thank you, but do not expect me. This is strictly personal. My blessings to everyone. Let’s go for a walk sometime. No words necessary. I’ll prepare tea.
Love this. Honest, but polite - tired of hashing the same stuff over and over, with better things to do. So moving in many ways! And the creek! Who wouldn't rather??
Beautiful medicine. Thank you.