Pit viper below,
you’ve left your arbor
for the streambed bath.
Soaking in coolness
you couldn’t find in
dry woodland branches,
you repose in tranquility.
Noticing our presence
on the footbridge above,
you lift your head
but do not move
from mindfulness,
or soothing waters.
May we be so wise
as to meet the unknown
not with fangs, but
a gaze of wonder