Okechukwu’s Musings: Poetry, People and Places

Author: Oke Iroegbu

  • Diary of a Village Boy: The Leopard Spirit 13 (Tales by Moonlight 3)

    I ignored the onlookers and went to sit with Fata. The evening was still young, and more children arrived as time went on. The moon shone differently than before; the white underside looked like it was cloaked in a light gray hue. The evening wind was busy doing its thing, and the little commotion of…

  • Perspectives: So Big, So Small

    I wrote a quote about this some time ago; this post is a revised version. I’ve always wondered how big an aircraft can be. Standing near one feels so massive that it could hold hundreds of people as they board. I often imagine the passengers inside a passing plane from the ground. Where are they…

  • From Los Angeles to the Wild: A Road Trip to San Diego Zoo

  • Pigeons

    Pigeons A few years ago, I tried to raise a couple of pigeons in Nigeria. I’ll call them elegant and bright birds, and I got them as babies because they fell out of their nests. They were vulnerable, and other birds, rodents, cats, dogs, or even insects could eat them! However, I only had them…

  • Quote: Quiet Wins

    Appear weak when you are strong, and strong when you are weak—Sun Tzu, The Art of War Let people underestimate you; the best moments happen when no one sees you coming!

  • Alcatraz

    I was there once—intense views,spirits rising and falling,all of us entrappedon this piece of land. I heard the seagullsand the silent whisperslifting with the sunrise—people, dust, memories. Cold weather, cold hearts,remnants of man’s resentment.Nature goes on living;this is no reservation. Guilt, conscience, prayers,tears, the 1960s, modernity—love, maybe hate.Are you ever worriedabout the past? I see…

  • Quote: Power is Gentle

    What can people learn from our giants, the peaceful, friendly, playful African elephants? Power is gentle! Now keep that in mind.

  • Sandia Mountain 2

    I miss the sight of Sandia Mountain—its quiet congregation of morning clouds,brief visitors dissolving in the first light. On the bus, with the window as a frame,I witness a slow-moving masterpiece:mountain, sunrise, cloud—a trinity that feels intentional. Sandia follows me, or so it seems,a steadfast citadel keeping paceno matter which road I take.I wonder what…

  • Why Fairytales Matter – Slides

  • Amuse: Past Life, Present Laughs

    I’m always amused when people say they knew someone in a past life. Really? Which one—when you were a cat with commitment issues and they were a dog who failed obedience school? Because that would explain so much.

  • Homelessness 2

    Do you truly understand what love is? It’s the powerful realization that homelessness doesn’t define a person’s worth. Homeless individuals are everyday people—just like you and me—deserving of kindness, respect, and love. Recognizing their dignity can ignite compassion within us and inspire real actions to help uplift their lives. So next time you see someone…

  • Love is a Choice

    Love is a choice, so I chose it—not because I had feelings that fade over time. Not because I notice your height or weight, but because I decided to. Not because I think I should, but because I made a decision to. Most times, there won’t be butterflies; other times, misunderstandings may occur. Sometimes, it…

  • Roses

    One bright Sunday, I came across a beautiful rose blooming unexpectedly in a quiet neighborhood on the outskirts of Albuquerque, Rio Rancho. It was a simple moment, but the charm of that surprise flower made it truly unforgettable. The striking beauty of the desert landscape shows that a single event or element can transform the…

  • Go Forth and Sparkle

    Leave gold dust wherever you stray,In kind words, in light, in gentle sway.Let hearts you touch in warmth still glow—A trace or say trail of love is all to sow.

  • The Bee and The Bloom

    A bumblebee buzzed with bumbling grace,Zipping and dipping all over the place.It spotted a flower, so red and sweet,And said, “Well hello there—my sugary treat!” It wiggled and jiggled and landed just right,Its belly fuzzy, with stripes shining bright.Then whispered, “Dear flower, don’t mind if I stay,I’m just here for nectar… and maybe to play.”

  • Random Thoughts 1

    Here are some random thoughts I’ve been jotting down over the past week. Bring some salt from home whenever you travel; it will remind you of home, even though most salt tastes the same. Feel and listen to the heartbeat of loved ones in a hug; it creates a special sensation. Wrinkles are signs that…

  • So… It Actually Rained in LA

    It’s Friday evening, and I have some free time to write a few lines—I’m not sure if that’s a thing. No matter. A few days ago, I saw my first heavy rain in Los Angeles and got drenched trying to escape it! I’d heard the rumors — that rain in Los Angeles is rare, dramatic,…

  • Writing Between the Lines of Life

  • Two Sides of a Coin

    Stories have a significant impact. They can inform or misinform, create opportunities or impose limitations. Ultimately, stories shape our understanding of the world. Those who tell these stories play a crucial role in what we recognize as history or facts. However, it’s important to remember that there are often multiple sides to a story. The…

  • Nature’s Creepiest Nun

    Let’s talk about the praying mantis. Sounds holy, right? With a name like that, you’d think it spends its days in quiet meditation, sipping herbal tea and whispering affirmations to butterflies; however, if “preying mantis” could have been a better name. Just saying. This bug is a straight-up ninja assassin in a leaf-green or sometimes…

  • Truth

    And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free – John 8.32

  • Protected: Love From Afar

    There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.

  • The Quiet Mirror Within

    To discover your true self, focus on your inner journey rather than seeking answers externally.

  • Whispers from First Earth

    Beneath this sun’s ancestral flame,Where baobabs bear me witness, still—Africa stirs with sacred name,In every plain and every hill. The Nile, in silken stories told,Winds through Nubian dreams of old,Where Kush once ruled with a crown of gold,And river gods their secrets hold. Mount Kilimanjaro stands,A sky-pierced crown of ancient lands—The Chagga guards its snowy…

  • Ina Murna – Obi n’atọm

    Would you dance to the beautiful rhythm in your heart and soul, or because of the warmth and smiles of loved ones and even strangers? What about the gentle breeze that caresses your body and mind? Or the encouraging words from good friends? Take a moment to look closely—there’s always something to be grateful for!…

  • Life

    What are you curious about? I’m curious about life, and everything in-between.

  • Quote on Grace

    Being gracious does not mean you are weak. Choose to be graceful regardless!

  • Thank You, New Mexico!

  • Summer Nights in Albuquerque

    Hot Days, Calm Evenings Interestingly, the winds decided to be gentle this evening. The day had been extremely hot, and I sometimes wonder if this is the exact Albuquerque that was chilly just a few weeks ago. I prefer summer evenings to the sweltering days because the heat lessens, allowing everyone to breathe a sigh…

  • Indigeneity 101c: Indigenous Knowledge and Ecology

    I invite you to read an article in Romanian (which can be translated into other languages) about the importance of incorporating indigenous practices into our ecological efforts. The article provides examples of environmental initiatives from communities in France, Vanuatu, Nigeria, Kenya, and Chad. How can we sustainably resolve conflicts between humans and wildlife in rural…

  • Let there be Light

    Let there be light—Genesis 1.3

  • Updated: Tale of The Wildwoods: When Summer Arrived!

    oiroegbu.com/2025/02/23/tale-of-the-wildwoods-when-summer-arrived/

  • Amuse: Windy Conversation

    Three incredible American states—Oregon, Vermont, and New Mexico—are hotspots for thrilling conversations about strong winds! Though I haven’t explored many states in the U.S., my brief adventure in Vermont left me breathless as I encountered some of the most powerful winds I’ve ever felt! Even the Lake Chaplain was basking in the windy euphoria. Those…

  • Sunrise & Sunset

    Sunrise and sunset look pretty similar, even though the rays of light travel in opposite directions. Both may occur at the exact location, and their glow appears alike. Occasionally, sunsets glow orange and are surrounded by clouds. I’ll explore words that might capture how I feel and characterize these two events tonight. Anyhow, it’s a…

  • A Month-Long Stay in California’s Nature Reserve

    Describe one of your favorite moments. One of my favorite experiences was my month-long stay at the Blue Oak Ranch Reserve in California, where I worked on ecological projects. The beauty of the ranch was captivating, and as a nature lover, I truly cherished my time spent alone. The highlight of my stay was befriending…

  • Love Like Spring Water

    When there was love,We saw the pretty cloudsClearer like the sweet springThat leap in delighted hasteRefreshing lands far & unknown

  • Gratitude Day 1

    An African saying states, “I am because you are.” It’s important to take a moment to sincerely thank those who have always stood by our side. Today, I want to take a moment to thank those who have supported me. Friends, we all have people who stood by us during our most challenging times. I…

  • Mushroom Cloud

  • Quote on Elephants

    How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time! – Desmond Tutu

  • Hummingbird

    I’ve been reading extensively about Native American folklore lately. As part of my Master’s research at Berkeley, I studied the relationships between people, wildlife, and the environment to understand how everything is interconnected. In Native American folklore, hummingbirds symbolize joy, happiness, and good luck. They are also seen as messengers from the other side, bringing…

  • Summer’s Warmth

    Have you ever written in the shade of a tree? I have done it several times, and I highly recommend it. The best time to try is on a sunny day. While we cannot control the increasing warmth of summer, we can embrace it and make the most of it. Now, I’d like to share…

  • Morning Rain: A Welcome Relief for Albuquerque

    Summer night rain has its charm, but morning rain brings a different vibe. I think everyone can relate to the refreshing coolness it offers and the extra time it gives to those with plans. Often, it is a perfect excuse not to do anything. Morning rain, dark clouds, chilly weather, and gloomy skies make me…

  • Exercise: Imagine

    While this isn’t poetry, let’s consider it a small exercise. Imagine you have the power to choose your feelings every day. What options would you select? Happiness or sadness Flowers or weedsPossibilities or adversitiesPlenty or scarcityLove or hateGreen or grayPeace or conflictBeginning or end Your choices shape your reality. If you’re having a tough day,…

  • Greater Roadrunners

    I followed this Roadrunner around campus for a steady portrait, and it couldn’t wait. What an impatient gentlebird! I remember the first time I saw the Greater Roadrunner; I was amused. The next time I encountered it in a picture, I thought it was having a bad hair day because of its natural mohawk hairstyle.…

  • Quote on Perspectives

    We need to realize how big but little everything is, how deep and shallow arguments can go, and that perspectives matter. We might be wrong or right, but we should give people grace. ~ Oke Iroegbu

  • Albuquerque’s Night Rain

    The sky churns with dark, rumbling clouds, and lightning streaks behind my window curtain illuminate the night with its brief, electric glow. These raindrops are accompanied by soft claps of thunder reverberating through the air, adding to the symphony of the rain’s soft drumming. It’s my first night of rain in Albuquerque, and my excitement…

  • Tumbleweeds & Roadrunners

    On a vibrant spring morning, I spotted a tumbleweed joyfully dancing down the road, carefree and spirited. There’s something amusing about watching these whimsical plants as they roll along. They seem like playful phantoms—hollow yet surprisingly sturdy. At times, it feels as though they are at the mercy of the wind, but often, it seems…

  • Ojibwe Proverb: On Resilience and Gratitude

    May you be strengthened by yesterday’s rain, walk straight in tomorrow’s wind and cherish each moment of the sun today– Ojibwe Proverb

  • Shades of Mount Sandia

  • Maybe 5

    Maybe prints left by crawling wormsare Earth’s remarkable autographs.Maybe trails left by snails and serpentstell anecdotes of curiosity in the dirt.Maybe we discover the beauty of letting things grow by cultivating gardens.