Sage without Onion

Whilst walking in an everglade

I met a sage of certain age

And asked him why and how?

"Sit," he said, "just enjoy the now.

Don't speak those words you already know

Listen instead, and it might show

You something new you never knew.

With careful thought a wise man speaks,

With none at all a fool just bleats."

These few words I sat and pondered.

Silence is golden, so I wondered.

Took his advice and sat quite still

And waited for his words to fill

This still air and peaceful setting

Excited at what I might be getting.

Then from a tree a call I heard

Announcing his presence, a tuneful bird.

The sage took a breath, "The bird is strong,

Those who sing will find a song.

Mistakes you will make, don't be downcast.

Just use it as a lesson.

Guilt will not change the past,

But only ruin the present.

Forgive a child afraid of the dark -

Tragedy, a man who shuns the light."

A dog walked past and gave a bark.

"Just saying hello, he will not bite.

Enough for today, it's time to go."

The sage got up nice and slow

Turned to me and gave a bow.

Left me wondering why and how?