After the Rain

Raindrops on Leaves, Forest Falls, CA

A big rain last night,

Lightening, thunder,

In Forest Falls

The dry earth rejoices.

And so do we, give thanks

For the liquid joy soaking into soil,

Nourishing tree roots,

Damping down tinder about to flash.

Not far from here, in Idyllwild, in another forest

The latest epic fire rages on.

And so we send our prayers,

In recognition for the fickle nature of heat and winds,

For the vulnerable and despairing,

And acknowledge how are bodies are fashioned

From the same elements that can destroy.

And kiss the sky in gratitude for the rain.