Each pitcher in its place —

each is filled with grace.

Some from my childhood —

others gifts, secondhand.

One is cracked — mended —

another has a chipped lip.

Blue and white porcelain —

earthy terracotta tones.

Oriental vases from China —

Taiwan — pre-war Japan.

Some are solid in one color —

others have their patterns.

A branch in one (acorn attached),

tiny crystals hide in others.

One pumpkin-shaped ceramic

pot is filled with potpourri.

The bumpy cream pitcher sits

beside its matched coffeepot.

Six little faded figurines play

with the same golden balls.

Buddhas and birch bark curls

keep each other company.

Kuan Yin stands above it all —

beauty’s mercy on display.

. . . . .

spb