ready for the prom

the forest as teenager

like readying itself for the prom,

the forest has put on its finery,

the greens so new they look like they’ve been washed,

and they pose and bow and stand full and tall

to capture the sun as if it’s a photographer

who wants to record how perfect this moment is,

meanwhile, I know insects want the food cornucopiaing forth,

and they will provide another bounty of food for the birds,

I’m drawn to savor the perfect fullness of a tree

and the almost casual perfection of a blossom,

upcoming months will find blackberries where flowers are now,

cherries and nuts upon the trees,

for now, though, it’s time to be young and ready for the prom.

by Henry H. Walker

May 21, ’14