winter’s rain
drifts into the city, and
gathers in the heavens
with eyes up turned
we take a fleeting moment
from our calendar
to consider nature’s impending decision
but, i, running into the rain
am ever
nature’s off-course daughter, and
i revel in anticipation, and
i dote on clouds heavy dark, and
take heart they loiter leisurely
through the day and night

i love
they nestle low among
the downtown skyline
turning off our daylight
to open on the pale sidewalks
raining the bloom of unsullied scents
washing away the busy days
surrendering to umbrella gatherings
to begin the precarious winter race
this weaving in and out
of puddle jumping
i quibble with
the rainbow of petroleum
that brightens the graveled streets
but, acquiesce to its color

and
if the fickle winds
mingle with the persistent patter
i run into the rain
to feel
the splash against my face
the cold bite upon my nose
i tingle beneath my downy jacket
i shudder against
this assault of life that awakens my memory
to the purity of creation, and
to its
purging, and
sustaining
the bustle of invention


jeanne rené 11/03