Sunlight found no place to break.
Clear, cloudless sky gave the straight rays
room to run
to the pond.
Across the bridge, glass below reflects and
lessons the ache
for a moment.
Walking, wandering,
ears in tune to breathing
grown breathless
as all the world weeps.
As all retreat into fear
and I cry for a new story.
That it will be well
for I don't feel well.
Along the pebbled path
beside the creek as darkness crept in
we turned.
Returning,
and sunset presented gently tonight.
Slowly meandering,
tears dammed tight
in refusal
to break.
And there she stares
emerging from woods
across the speckled water.
A statue breathing
frozen in time.
We gaze,
one upon the other
and even my dog lies prone.
Unmoving.
The sound of applause
erupts
from left and right.
In rhythm yet disconnected
as if nature cries,
yes.
Stand.
Look.
Watch how we slow and observe
in unhurried movements.
Watch how she steps in time to her reflection
perfectly framed.
I dare to move
just a little.
We stare again,
transfixed
as I will myself to breathe.
She goes,
farther,
in the tall grass
disappearing
and I turn.
The applause ceases and we step more slowly
deliberately
as waters deepen to
reflect the last rays
of sunset's glow
while
out of sight
I hear the applause begin again.
