honey and sting

Passed test, new driver's license will be in the mail in a few weeks. Took the plunge and purchased a tempurpedic mattress -- we'll see if it lives up to the hoopla. Yes, my life really is about logistics right now. Ordered phone and tv service; both will take two weeks. Feeling horrible about the people caught in mudslides up the coast -- for us, at least, the rain has stopped and the sun is shining. Read a really interesting article yesterday in the NY Times about how tsunamis, earthquakes, and such are ultimately beneficial for the planet and human life -- having to do with the redistribution of minerals and other nutrients. It's the very long view. But evidence from space exploration suggests we are the only planet so far with this degree of mobile earth activity, which may say a lot about the viability of life on those planets. Apparently the upheaval of the earth strongly supports the evolution of life. I have to say I was... chastened? Not quite the right word, but... sobered, perhaps, by this information. Individual consciousness, MY individual consciousness, is very jealous of my existence. I don't WANT to be in the tsunami's path. And yet.

In our bodies,
the sweep and roar
of original ocean.

Touching you,
I feel the tide
of a planet's ancient
dream.