alpaca

 

good morning to you

time to eat some tasty grass

from my green pastures

© 2026 Richard Havenga

Photo Location: Grand Traverse County - Michigan

Long Hours

 for Aaron Havenga  (April 2, 1975 ~ November 20, 1994)

The first light to pierce the dawn

reminds me of your radiant smile.

I miss your warm presence

during the long hours of daylight.

Until the long hours of night,

when sleep becomes my friend.

Inside the vague territory of dreams

when the missing you is missing.

© 2026 Richard Havenga

Photo Locations: Grand Teton National Park - Wyoming

Golden Collection

 

In late November,

when all the leaves have fallen,

the Weeping Willow

retains possession

of its golden collection;

narrow, tapered fingers

pointing at their future

among the others

on the cold, hard ground. 

© 2025 Richard Havenga

Photo Locations: McCarthy Lake - Kent County - Michigan

Power of Words

 

I believe in the power of words

to awaken our slumbering souls.

The inexpressible joy 

at the birth of your child.

The shattering, shocking blow

at the tragic loss of your child.

The depth of desire

in a sincere, meaningful love.

The loyal contentment

of a trustworthy marriage.

The dependable certainty

from a reliable faith.

© 2025 Richard Havenga

The Weight of Sorrow

 Aaron Havenga (April 2, 1975 ~ November 20, 1994)

At first,

when it happened,

the weight was so heavy

I could not lift it

off my chest;

the way it pushed

on my heavy heart.

But after thirty years

I've learned how to carry

the weight of sorrow.

Although I've aged,

my strength is greater,

the burden feels lighter,

my faith shines brighter.

Nineteen years of love was not enough,

but we will be together again.

Love, Dad

© 2024 Richard Havenga