(for my son Andreas)
“the stars go by in their serene beatitudes”
William Stafford
Honey, I want to curl around you
And listen like old people listen.
I am sure the fields which are full of winter,
sodden with rain and mud,
will bring green drifts of spring again,
when it is time.
You said to read Ecclesiastes.
I read it, and still can’t tell what time it is.
Honey, have you heard the rain on the roof
In the night?
It was quiet, but still I could hear it.
I am looking for signs and wonders.
Yes, in the night there are stars, to help me.
Honey, I send you Palestrina--
strands of rainbows woven into songs.
I hope it will be enough for the stars,
And every prayer I have said,
Between the rain and the green shoots
Telling me it is spring.
