Essential Processes to the Development of a Sense of Self
You string a hammock
up beneath the willow
within a thicket of oaks and redwoods,
your body swings gently
back and forth, back and forth,
time to relax—inhale
a deep breath of crisp fresh air,
savor the soothing scents of eucalyptus,
appreciate the rustle of leaves
after a sudden gust—a chilling breeze,
the sun punctures her way through the clouds
kissing your skin—the warmth tickles,
then there’s bliss,
the bliss that comes with
staring up at a canopy of bright
green leaves, eclipsing a sea of evening stars,
dawn draws near—You exhale
amongst the grove of oaks and redwoods,
vines of ivy grow, clambering towards the sky,
You observe, in the hammock
beneath the willow swaying
back and forth, back and forth.
Written By: Francesca Bavaro
About the Artist: Francesca Bavaro enjoys reading and writing poetry and short fiction. In her spare time she enjoys hiking, walking dogs, and frolicking in the grassy knolls of Golden Gate Park. She is terrified of birds.
Visual Art “Zion’s Watchman” By: Constance Louie-Handelman
About the Artist: Constance Louie-Handelman completed her A.A. degree at CCSF in 1973. Now retired as a clinical psychologist, she has returned to CCSF 2019 spring semester with a focus on digital photography.
Forum Literary Magazine 