The Distances So Far J. Gregory Cisneros 

In three oceans, 

On two seas, 

With uncounted planktonic waves 

Breaking on sand and stone; 

I saw standing on those shores, 

And felt swimming across those depths, The pulse of the earth as it spun on its axis. I then understood 

the salinity in my blood. 

On five continents, 

In three ranges, 

I gained altitudes and distances and sicknesses. Standing on the indifferent rock  

And the frozen shoulders of mountains, I looked down on clouds and trees and rivers, I looked up at the infinite blue 

And understood then my insignificance In Rerum Natura.

In multiple countries, 

In multiple cities, 

Among multiplying multitudes, 

I eyed all others suspiciously. 

Through a haze of exhaust and combustion din Simple acts of kindness 

Showered me with the wonders 

Of this poly-hued humanity. 

The shared joy of gain: 

Births, wives, husbands, families. 

Knowledge? Wisdom? 

The shared sorrow of loss: 

Love, health, clarity, death. 

I am inevitable to this earth 

So have not abandoned hope. 

My ashes will sail 

On the winds of this planet, 

Over azure depths and turquoise shallows of oceans, Up into the grey stone and white ice of mountains.

I will be the dust in the rain 

That pours on the cities and landscapes Of the only space I have ever known.