A Paradoxical Stew

A paradox is a thing that

shouldn’t be—cannot be—

but stubbornly is.

Though a paradox defies description,

the key is in the conjunction.

Our building code

commands construction

in the material discipline of

or…

                        either this

                        or that,

                        but never

                        both or neither.

But that metaphor is unapt,

since – paradoxically – 

the universe can’t pass inspection,

has no load-bearing walls

and appears to be held up by

the aroma of something

savory and mysterious

simmering on

God’s stove.

And is the essential spice in

paradoxical stews,

the alchemy of reunion,

a common lineage traceable to

star gardens and pantries

too high for humans to reach.

Better not to ask who

plows the fields and

gathers the harvest.

                        Just sip the

                        salty broth of

                        is/and…

                        and live.