In Echoing Halls
What is this room, replete with crucifixions,
Nativities, a dozen "Madonna-and-Child"'s?
The Renaissance. Who else shows Roman soldiers
In full knight's armor, Mary in Italian gown?
But note that sparkling reflection -
The gilded Bethlehem Star
Echoed in gilt embroidered dresses
And haloes framing faces, eyes cast down,
Or else lifted with hands towards heaven's heights.

A brilliant wave of color
Covering years of dirt and grime
Like learning afresh what was learned before
What you thought was forgotten in time

The whirr of the wheel going ‘round
Winter front and dusky sky
Pleasing the eye as I paint them
Coming to life, side by side

Muscles stretching
Plié and pouncing, sweat dripping
My body awakens with
Each reach for the bucket sitting

Just there. Who would have
Thought that painting
A wall touched by time
Could be so invigorating?