Via Basel: New Year’s Day

Maysey Craddock, shadow and light

New Year’s Day in Normal

Sitting inside, looking out,

Enclosed, small backyard,

Imposing naked pear tree,

Two bird nests high on top,

Occupied or abandoned, hard to tell,

Crowded overgrown evergreen shrubs,

Hiding us from neighbors,

Earthy, tired, brown grass,

Sprinkled decaying leaves on top.

Cracked cemented patio floor.

Stillness in the air, chimes

Hanging silently from the tree.

Skies, patches of furry clouds,

Marching, steady and slow.

Suddenly, a burst of sun rays

Through open spaces, landing

Softly, gently on bare skin, sleepwear,

Offering warmth, comfort and health,

Continually moving on, giving

To others, lovingly, generously.

I am in, looking out, and wondering:

Out there, are they looking in?

Old bearded man in contemplation.

The beauty, the miracle, the mystery,

On this first day of an uncertain,

Unpredictable, possibility filled year.

Created January 1st, 2026 at Chris’s home in Normal Illinois.

Listen to audio version here. 

Basel Al-Aswad, father of EIL founder Christopher Al-Aswad, is a yogi trapped in an Orthopedic Surgeon’s body. His loves in life include reading, writing, hiking, enjoying nature, meditation, and spending time with his large Iraqi family; now, semi-retired, he is exploring new avenues in medicine, education, public speaking, teaching, and social engagement.

Via Basel: My Glorious Ornamental Pear Tree

Via Basel: Insights From 50 Years…