Small Ways
Eloise Mayton

Whenever I have a friend sleep over, I always wake up before them.
If I realize there’s no coffee in the house, I go out and get some
and make it back before they’re even up.

I know what kind of coffee he likes.
He has to make a therapy
appointment in the city today.

Another friend texts and asks for my help moving.
I already have other plans but want to help.
Maybe I can some other day.

I got lunch for Finn today because he rode his bike to my house
three times on alternatingly cold and spring-like March days.

On my Mom’s birthday I sent her three books.
We live in different towns and she lives alone.
I tried to pick out books I thought she’d like and I think I did ok.

I don’t get drunk but I do get scared. But if you get drunk, you’re still my friend.
When I smoke cigarettes, I throw them on the ground but then I pick them right up
and find a trash can. And if I see other cigarette butts, I pick them up too.

At least some times. I just want to help in some small way.
Maybe I can some other day.

Before I got sick, I thought work was shit
and that everyone and everything
was too demanding.

Now I just want to help in some small way.
Give me one more day. I’m trying.

Call for Submissions

We are revitalizing the blog section on Transbuddhists.org. We would like to issue a call for any submissions of any content anyone would be willing to share on the blog to reflect our community. This could include personal writing, theoretical writing, creative pieces, art, photography, video or audio recordings, or really any content related to the intersection of cultivating a Buddhist practice and trans identity. Please consider this an opportunity for self-expression and also an opportunity for generosity/being of service by sharing of yourself with the Transbuddhist community.

All submissions should be directed to info@transbuddhists.org. Eloise will gratefully follow up with you regarding any submissions.