JR Rhine

Another stick of incense

burned to the brim

little legs of ash trailing

on the altar

at one time there was smoke

and more than a vague recollection

of a sweeter scent

this here is the passing of time

still

we may find embers

in the ashes of Pompeii

so it is best 

even in your worst attempts

to stamp it all into the ground

 

tread lightly.