(author’s front yard with Russian Olive tree)
A brief desert rain
quenches the fire.
The fierce white heat
(of a perpetually burning star)
is momentarily overshadowed
when the Cloud People pass by.
This sky blessing leaves
each Russian olive luminous.
Wild grasses spring to life.
Fragrant Datura spirals unfurl.
Impossible lavender edges
and white moon centers
open hearts to the hawk moth…
When I step outside inhaling
sweet moisture laden
air I feel softer, more pliant
like the feathery stems bowing
low from the recent deluge.
Juniper wafts her scent my way.
Wildflowers stalks deepen their color –
iridescent emerald opens wide
eyes grown dim
from scorching sun rays.
Every plant and tree
expresses deep gratitude
for this gift from the sky people
each in her own way.
And I am thankful to be
‘Plant Woman’ participating
in this moment of Earth renewal,
for the Gift of Water
has healed my Beloved –
this Dry Cracked Land.