ENEMIES

Too often, I start with the conclusion
and walk backwards to make sure
I don’t lose sight of it, check

perspective with each sliding, baby step
to peer through holes in the rocks and trees
for dark movement, like cattle grazing

in the brush across the canyon. Sometimes
just parking, letting your horse stand as your
combined eyes and ears inhale the hillside

while the world’s clock ticks, skipping a few
beats to fall out of sync with the perfect
perjuries, can be enough in your quest.

But beware of slogans and sure sounds
that stir the blood without warning, bait
traps and ensure a life of hating enemies.