Two places, one a stage and one a garden,
both shining light in the circle where shadows show as directed,
both inviting action to run through scenes of alternating comedy and tragedy.
The Player dances in careful pirouettes for the delight of invisible spectators,
while the Hermit hums in the sandy soil shaping mounds of beauty for none.
Two places, one a stage, one a garden,
both designed to host stories of heroic beginnings and ending.
The Player struts about with painted cheeks and a paper crown,
the Hermit hobbles, hoe in hand, around the edges clawing diligently at some moss.
Two places, one stage and one garden,
both a site for irony and artful distraction, both a proving ground for concentration,
both an artificial landscape stirring sensations, both a crucible of mind over ego.
The Player executes with renowned grace and flare,
the Hermit doses off against a tree before the pruning.
Two places, stage and garden,
both vying for attention.
The Player bows, the Hermit rests.
The Player smiles into the lights, peering into dark faces,
the Hermit gazes up through the trees, curious about the rain.
Stage and garden. Player and Hermit. Needing and tending.
Both a scene of toil and hope for receiving…what?
Applause and solitude. Gratification and self-expression.
Discipline and pride and agency.
Two places. One story.
Dani's Healing 