-- Nature’s Peace --

John Herlihy

We speak of the immensity of nature,

The sheer vastness of the sea and sky.

Grandeur of mountains, their stature,

Raising variations on the question why.

In this awesome presence we feel rapture,

The forlorn cry of the loon makes us cry.

Settles down in us, our hearts to capture,

Lending emotions eternal that never die.

A light drizzle of rain sanctifies stillness,

Holding at bay all sad feelings, despairs.

In its fullness of blessing lies emptiness,

Washing away all our worries and cares.

In emptiness lies a readiness for fulness,

A clear answer to all our fervid prayers.

Even our sorrow tinged with happiness,

Gentle rain as the elixir of soothsayers.

All hardships tempered by winter snow,

Thank the seasonal chill for winter’s lace.

In falling down its peacefulness to bestow,

Its rich ground now a white-bearded face.

All the trees of the forest waiting to grow,

Their stark branches skeletal fingers trace.

Into our hearts, soft wind whispers blow,

Leaving indelible marks nothing can erase.

How can winter’s death bring such delight?

Wherever you turn, nature’s peace in sight.

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Copyright © John Herlihy

Sunday 6 February 2022