The Sand Hill Review          http://www.sandhillreview.org                  2003

 

 

Potato As Amulet

 

Grasp the fingers around the shape

and hold it at arm's length,

largest eyes outward. Practice

this movement so it becomes natural

as breathing.

 

Or place a hole through the top third

of the potato with a wire

or nail. Lace a string through

from side to side

side to side.

Double-looped, tie a knot to close.

 

Around the neck or in a pocket,

the potato is poised to hasten

bad blood from the body

and move people who harm you

away from your inner circle.

 

The shape of a potato is not coincidental.

Starting at one point, you

return to that point in time.

Beginning and end being basically the same,

you are forgiven for stumbles, for

 

The first step is always next.

 

Janice Dabney