I WISH
I wish I were the night sky
the arc of stars
you look through
toward time and your true nature.
I wish I were the river
you never step in twice,
the road you follow home.
I wish I were the wild, aerobatic bird
released from behind your ribs.
I wish I were the deft phrase
that makes up your mind
the ancient ocean
of absolute certainty
at the edge of your dreams.
I wish I were the wooden spoon
you’ve used for thirty years
to stir that thick barley soup
you love to make.