Cascading over nature-placed stones,

the cool water encourages peaceful thoughts

while nourishing abundant nearby flora,

refreshing in the image of life.

Water’s splashing, gurgling sounds

bring forth melancholy images

of childhood days of friends playing,

rambunctious in their happiness at river’s edge.

Waterfalls from mountain’s ridge

embracing each stone as it flows downward,

softly caressing bolder and cobblestone alike

on its plunge to valley below.

Water -  fundamental constituent of the universe;

an essential solvent for plant, beast, and man.

Yet we abuse and misuse. Shall we taste and waste,

dilute and pollute, until all known life is gone?

© Jackie (Micke) Jinks, May 24, 2005