Trickster

Leave the kingdom of Should

and settle in the land of Not Knowing,

where the wise have broken their wine cups

stumbling, falling in astonished laughter.

Where pairs of opposites grow

on a single vine

and lovers squeeze amrit from thorns.

Be done with searching

for who you already are.

With begging for what you have.

With beating your breast like a weary pilgrim

who can't seem to find the journey’s end

in this footstep.

Be done with gurus 

who won't whisper in your ear,

“enlightenment is a sacred joke.”

Friend, don’t be so serious

about God.

You might miss her scat singing.

You might miss the wayless

playfulness of extinction.

If your teacher isn't a trickster,

you’ve been tricked!

The truly uncivilized 
master of meditation

will lead you off-trail

into the wilderness

of your heart.

Painting by Susan Sedon-Boulet