How to End Narcissism

If you were a beast

you would be affectionate

with soft, curly fur,

long legs like a colt, four of them,

the intelligence behind the eyes decidedly human.

So, you are a mythical beast

probably with the ability to speak,

certainly with the gift of laughter.

You would be a beast of burden,

ready to trek long miles

carrying baggage and supplies

for refugees. 

There is a long straggling line behind you.

Often children climb up to rest on you.

At night they burrow in for your warmth.

If we imagine this for each other,

become magical beasts for each other,

we become so interesting 

no one will abandon anyone.

If Mothers were charged with this exercise,

it would put an end to narcissism.

There are so many who need to be seen this way.

Let’s imagine each other into newness

that still holds truth

like a clear glass holds sun and water.

Let’s try this.

At the dinner table, ask 

If Grandma was a mythical beast….

I can tell you, my sister

would be a large bird

floating on a blue lake,

her feathers blue and green,

her wingspan mighty.

This poem is included in Reclaiming the Nectar and the Hum