the storm is rising, forecasting

days of torrential rain ahead. 

~~

i walk down by the beach and

lean into the wind, struggling

to stay upright, grinning at other

humans as we pass by, brave.

~~

hair flying, clothing dancing.

~~

and then i glimpse the perfect

sight of hope in the face of tempest.

~~

sails rippling and smiles wide, 

they run towards water and choose 

the elements as their friend. 

~~

laughing at its efforts, they 

harness instead. letting wind carry 

them across ocean in pure, 

intentional joy.

~~

so, i stop, sit, and watch them 

for a while, ponytail whipping my face, 

and welcome the challenge stirring within

~~

that this is how to face the season ahead. 

not retreating, not hiding, not afraid,

but shoulders squared, embracing 

the beauty within the storm. 

~~

©Heather Pound 2023

image:mine