Ascend

Rain showers have ended,
and sharpened the scent
of sage; like incense
ascending into Heaven.

A cold, narrow stream
crawls through this meadow,
obeying gravity,
attracting birds.

A Western Tanager
flares red and yellow
with wings blurred,
pursuing insects.

Another feeds currents
to its fledgling
perched on a 
rusty barbed wire.

Aspens climb the foothills,
and mingle with spruce.
If you listen carefully,
you can hear the earth breathe.

This entire valley is filled
with the breath of sage,
and my gratitude for these gifts
ascends with my praise.

© 2019 Richard Havenga

Photo Locations:

1. Home Fields - Cannonsburg, Michigan

2. Colorado National Monument - Fruita, Colorado

3. Grand Teton National Park - Wyoming

4. Estes Park, Colorado

5. Ohio Creek - Gunnison, Colorado