Translator

 

How to become a translator

of the language

of moving water:

Be out there, listening,

with ears that hear,

and a feeling of gratitude.

Understand that it cannot

be interpreted using mere words;

but expressed only with

a receptive heart

and a grateful awareness

of your current blessings.

© 2026 Richard Havenga

Photo Locations:

1. Arkansas River - Buena Vista, Colorado

2. Payette River - Idaho 

Finishing

 

I'm waiting expectantly

for this morning's sunrise.

Hoping to be filled

with luminous light,

and a few creative words

inspired by the Holy Spirit.

Starting with receptivity.

Finishing with gratitude.

© 2024 Richard Havenga

Photo Location: Grand Teton National Park - Wyoming

Space Between the Stars

 

Although the vast space between the stars

is windless and soundless,

it could still accommodate

the voice of God;

it would not require

light years to arrive, would it?

Not heard, precisely,

but possibly perceived

in some mysterious way

by those longing to listen

with patience, reverence, 

and genuine innocence;

like St. Francis of Assisi

in his magical garden.

Perhaps, with authentic receptivity,

we may hear divinity speaking.

Someday, somewhere,

in the space between the stars.

© 2023 Richard Havenga

Photo Location: Catalina, Arizona 

 

Perceptive

I am always grateful

for the power of perception.

Deeper than simple observation,

perception contains the capacity

for emotion and passion.

While working in my spring garden,

a Song Sparrow singing sweetly

can make me suddenly attentive

to its joyful, solo performance,

carry music into my soul.

While fishing on McCarthy Lake,

I become conscious of

ballooning cumulus

reflecting on calm water,

surging into summer-blue skies.

While hiking in the Rocky Mountains,

my awareness is elevated

by golden waves of aspens

climbing slopes and ridges.

While running these country roads,

the autumn wind flings falling leaves

onto my head and torso,

producing a sensory experience.

While exploring the shoreline

of Pickerel Lake in early winter,

I witness the conversion

of water into ice.

I have become more receptive,

mindful and present;

influenced by the renewal and recurrence

of creation in all seasons.

© 2020 Richard Havenga

Photo Locations:

1. Home Woods - Cannonsburg, Michigan

2. McCarthy Lake - Kent County - Michigan

3. Ouray, Colorado

4. Ada Township - Kent County - Michigan

5. Pickerel Lake Park - Kent County - Michigan