I bring a camera as a third eye
that sees the beauty of the everyday
in the pattern of a gravel walkway
an old mosaic under a window
trees, shadows and reflections
the iridescent wings of a fly
the interesting fruit on that evergreen tree
If I hadn't stopped to snap some closeups
would I ever have noticed it really?

 with my camera I pay homage
to all the world around me
it's a small ceremony, a slight bow
or a lifetime achievement award
to honor the dignity and worth
of the lives and existence of each subject
almost to see the world from their point of view

whether an oak tree or the water spigot
on the side of a building 
or a dead heron on the grass
a respectful photo is a gift
received with gratitude and empathy
when nature is graciously
and generously amenable 
to pausing for a moment
to smile and pose