I climbed out of my car after tying my shoes.

I look up to see the crescent white moon hanging

among the stars as if a guest .

It is often the moon is the host, but not this morning.

I stand erect to set my watch and phone for the run.

I also set my mind, as it is surely the mind set

that begins the run…

Then I look across the darkness , and ‘oh no,’

A furry black skunk’s white stripe reflects the night shadows.

I turn and go the other way…

CMM. 2020