Not So Mindful

by Laura Grace Weldon

Not So Mindful  by Laura Grace Weldon

Gentle, gentle is the rule 
when releasing beets from soil’s grasp
in late October chill. 
I know I should fully inhabit the cold. 
Notice the way roots cling.
Remain present to the leaves’ 
gorgeous greens and pinks. 
Center myself in this blunt trowel moment.
Yet my mind resists mindfulness.
The burgundy of Ruby Queen beets
reminds me of fabric I choose at 18, 
yards of silky polyester 
patiently sewn by Marion Paradis 
into ungainly bridesmaid dresses. 
My thoughts mosey everywhere but here
till metal pierces bright beet flesh. 
I look up, notice how little time is left
before night’s wide mouth
swallows this day. 
I stand, brush off my knees, 
carry frost-sweetened roots in 
red stained hands to our warm house.
How easy it is to pierce
what we mean to treat gently.