Flowers and birds
woods and furry beasts
inhabit my world
at second hand—
in zoos and public gardens.
My world has been
the city
houses next to each other
you can reach
from wall to wall.
Towers so tall
they pierce the clouds
and obscure
the night time’s
stars.
Whitman’s people—
progeny of cobalt black
slave China girl mestizo
pale white men like me
blue blood and low brow.
Without the mix my world
does not exist.
I never knew the road less traveled
but streetcar tracks
trolley buses
twenty-four hour streets.
I seldom tramped
through fern and bush—
milked a cow and
gathered eggs
only as a tourist
on my uncle’s farm.
My tropes come
from different corners
of the world—
without the charm
no cuddling lure.
But grace
is no stranger
in my city—
on skid row
in a panhandler’s face
a screeching ambulance
an anxious ER waiting room
even an
alfresco cafe.
Grace does not charm.
It does not cuddle.
Gritty like the city
it liberates.
(c) Phil Hefner 4/9/2019
liftthescreen 
Professor Phil,
Recently at the ELCA Natural Systems Academy where I serve as Curriculum and Development Coordinator, Professor John Haught presented his work on Christianity and Science. I asked him if he knew you. He responded with enthusiasm calling you a friend. Your books and his have been a rich source activating the neurons. Your courses back when the new “set on pillars” seminary opened were formative and lasting for this now retired parish pastor. It would be enjoyable to cross your path once again and discuss theology and the science of human behavior. Thank you for who you are and what you do. Grace does not charm while freeing up.
Larry Foster, LSTC class of 1969
Good to hear from you, Larry. Yes Jack Haught and I had good times together. I hope your retire is proving to be satisfying. Phil
Thanks for your good wishes. I’m a little young yet at 81 but am trying to come up with a good definition of retirement. Good wishes to your. Larry