clarity

Crystal clear. The Rohatsu sesshin starts today. I read on Space.com that today is when Venus is at its brightest so I went out to take a look. Venus was blazing in the southwest with Spica to the right, and Saturn above. Christmas tree lights on at the neighbor's house. Bright orange embers in the wood stove.

Leaning against the tree,
branches and leaves are few:
A night of stars.
Shiki

Post Script: I found this picture on Google Images of Venus, Saturn & Spica taken on November 10th. It was taken by "Astro Bob." Sort of sounds like a kindred spirit. I went in to tell Allyn about Venus about 6:00 this morning. I didn't want her to miss it. She shuffled out about 20 minutes later and said, "Where is it?" No good morning, no kiss, no nothing.
TSG

Post post script: The Rohatsu sesshin always takes place around December 8th, the Buddha's Enlightenment day. After a period of intense meditation, the Buddha attained enlightenment after glancing upon the morning star; that's right, the planet Venus.