Reflections – June 20, 2021

Grateful,

I listened to the sounds of water

on the first day of summer

the steady gentle pattering of rain

on leaves and earth –

so welcome

after many dry days of wind and heat

from the unrelenting glaring sun

Patient,

listening to the increasing pace of rhythmic knocking

as heating water bubbles struck the sides of the teakettle

before the steam arose in an ear-piercing whistle

Peaceful,

transported through time to childhood memories

of the tinkling gurgling brook that taught me to sing

and the power of the roaring waves coming in from the sea

and the hisses as the water rushed back to its home

Contemplative,

sounds once heard that cannot be forgotten

though they bring nostalgia tinged with sadness

knowing how little regard we have shown

toward the oceans, rivers, lakes, and brooks

that have continued to share the essence of life

along with the songs of the water they carry

*

*

Acknowledgements:

Reflections inspired by my summer reading:

Rachel L. Carson (1989). The sea around us (Special Edition). New York, NY: Oxford University Press.

Aldo Leopold (1966). A sand county almanac: With essays on conservation from Round River. New York, NY: Ballantine Books.

Although I wish I had read their work decades ago, I am nonetheless grateful for the interesting path my life has followed.

*