Postcard from the Taj Mahal

Metamorphic

We adapt

Hardened 

Polished to a high luster

by heat ,time, pressure

We form at the edges

between movement

Like fond caresses

traces of mica, 

chert, or quartz

across our face

We bring lessons 

of stability

strength

clarity

poise and grace

We can teach you

self control

sensibility 

serenity

We neutralize acids

Offering elegant protection

remembered dreams

mastery of thought

From ancient temples' 

columned halls

to the poignant effigy 

of Shelley,

poet drowned.

Animation suspended

La Pieta

Winged Victory 

David before his battle

Lincoln in contemplative repose

Rodin's kiss.

Memories

preserved for the ages,

Children knuckling down

playing games 

in cosmic dust

Aphrodite of Milos

and the Love entombed

beneath the crown of palaces

pristine domes. 

Patiently roughed out

with hammer and chisel

Easily carven

Polished, poised

yet harder 

with each day that turns

Immortalized

as a Grecian urn.

For those new to the game, each poem is inspired by a Teacher found in Nature; a star, stone, animal, plant etc that holds lessons of Wisdom. Can you guess who is singing?