World, my amazing World, you sustained me
When death came near.
Winds first rustling in wild torrents flew me
To the hospital, where waiting doctors listened for
Sirens above the whoosh.
Water iced over in silver-white edges cracked in support and
Traction in the frenzy of gurneys and running emergency bustle.
Candles flickered during desperate prayers in the darkest hours
That night when tiny flowers found strength in their mulch-covered seeds.
You, my World, embraced me then comforted and saw us through.
World, my nurturing World, you comforted me
When death stepped aside.
Trees in February’s chill dug into the deepest soils
Past dried leaves, left over snowed tears, and
Knotted growths to pull up the delicate leaf buds of
March, slowly, shyly gazing through my hospital window
Teaching me that roots grow within us all
Bringing life when we most need the breath for one more day.
World, my brazen World, you goaded and prodded
Me in defying the daily deaths of apathy, fear, and resignation
As I returned home yet needed more healing.
Sun shining into my home brought no soft rays of light but
Instead fire-flight wings of energized determination,
Allowing for my own tears to well-up and flow,
My hurt to howl out in springtime’s wind songs,
My knees to gratefully sink to soft muds and new grass in cries of humble gratitude
Following wobbly steps and murmured fears.
You celebrated and inspired
Recovery through a dark passage.
Your flames would reach up, billow, and tower to illuminate new paths or
Grow smaller into candle flames to warm each pastel spring morning to a golden afternoon
World, my miraculous World, you celebrate with me
A rebirth in this summer a year of trials, growth, and wonder after that first shock.
Winds elevate to make me want to fly or coo to me
Water in storm torrents or soft mist cleanse me
Your minerals, rocks, and soil connect me to a deeper, richer inner-well
Your fire warms for energy and ignites my determination.
World, my amazing, nurturing, brazen, miraculous World, thank you for my life.
