Rising from the wetlands,
a prized living trophy
glowing on the stage,
anthers bowing down
in adoration,
surrounded by
a supporting audience
of soft, pastel petals.
American Lotus.
Nelumbo lutea.
© 2026 Richard Havenga
Photo Location:
Grand River - Spring Lake, Michigan
The pure whiteness
of the swans' feathers
displays pure elegance.
Like blossoming
clouds of cumulus drifting
on a still water lake.
The s-curved neck,
flexible, arching;
a smooth, supple rope.
Then swimming with nobility,
its royal wings raised like sails
into a vessel of grace.
And after it has
climbed the sky,
behold the white cross
passing through
your present life;
an image of resurrection.
© 2023 Richard Havenga
Photo Locations:
1. & 3. McCarthy Lake - Grattan Township - Kent County - Michigan
2. Rogue River - Rockford, Michigan
4. Reeds Lake - East Grand Rapids, Michigan
5. Petty's Bayou - Spring Lake, Michigan
As winter
melts into spring,
a pair of Mute Swans,
high above the ice,
just above the fog,
circles the outline
of the quiet bayou.
Their wide white wings
whistle with each downstroke.
Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh.
Three long air laps
around the shoreline
as they gradually
gain altitude,
and finally disappear
into the untouchable
white.
© 2021 Richard Havenga
Photo Locations:
1. Petty's Bayou - Spring Lake, Michigan
