Once, I could predict the gender of infants before birth.  If I

focused now, I could still do it.  But how do you do this?

By getting to know the parents.

 

These days, though, I let it go.  I see the flood and release it

where it needs to be.  Sometimes, pretending not to know

is better, although not for myself.

 

Lately, I’ve been struck by certain deaths.  I haven’t uttered

a word, but I see them walking around, the stones around

their necks, waiting to jump into the sea.  I see them looking

around, searching for gaps between the rocks, hoping and

not hoping they’ll be noticed, their eyes straight ahead

 

and then, with unbelievable suddenness, jump off from the

heights, seeing only peace at the bottom of the cliff.

 

 

©  Ella Wagemakers, 13.59 Dutch time (=  7.55 EST in the US)