I write these words to delay

What can I do with these thoughts,

given me as a dog is given her flock?

Or perhaps it is the reverse -

my life the unruly sheep, being herded.

At night,

all lie down on the mountain grasses,

while mirror sheep, a mirror guard-dog

follow one another through rock outcrops,

across narrow streams.  The drink and graze by starlight.

This morning, waking to unaccustomed calmness,

I write these words to stay in that silent, unfevered existence,

to delay the other words that are waiting.

~ Jane Hirshfield

from After