I have learned not to tie down the waterfall..
Or, blow my feeble breath
across the raging sea.
I have learned to let my life flow--
And soar above it all--
in order to stay free.

I want no tigers by the tails--
nor ride a white-scarred
Humpback whale...

There is no journey worth the sweat--
Of placing wrinkles across my aging brow...
I prefer to gaze upon the stars--
as I am doing now.

I have waved my censer in the dark,
danced barefoot in the park.
I have learned to let my hair down
and ride bareback on golden carousels.

I want no tigers by the tails--
nor ride a white-scarred
Humpback whale....

There is no journey worth the sweat--
I've cancelled all my debts--
So I can gaze upon the stars--
as I am doing now.