The winds of November
rake through the valley,
clearing the trembling trees,
whistling down chimneys,
lifting the rivers.
Geese will come soon
from the far north
to feed off broad stubbled fields
as ice and snow climb down
from high peaks.
The fog machine
continues its message –
stay busy and buy,
yet turning away
to what the earth says
will warm us if we listen
through winter dark.
glass sculpture by Linda Ethier
Beautiful. I love the inwardness of this season.
Don, you remind us here of how vital it is to turn away from the message coming from the fog machine – turn away from its imposing and deviant influence – even while we observe everything so that we are not self-deluded. But mostly that ‘turning away from’ allow as ‘turning toward’ something new yet eternally present- and I turn to hear the Voice of the Holy Earth.The implication is that I must listen all through the darkening winter cycle, and the promise of a great warming is inherent where attunement is present with the spirit of the Living World. So simple, so powerful and radiant, and so beautiful, Don. Thank you.
A truly luscious description of autumn, Don. Yes, listening to our Mother Earth enhances our wonder, through cold times. Thank you so much!
I love the idea of “turning away to”. Very nice work Don
These latest two poems of yours with Eilish’s and Linda’s beautiful artwork is so nourishing. I am thankful for what all of you share with us. It is a blessing and so necessary, especially in these times.
Don, I have something further to add, compelled by the spirit of this poem. Over this past year, whenever notification of a new poem on yours comes into my mailbox, I stop everything and read. Your poems, like all good and truly creative poems, are a manifestation of the sacred word, uttered in a secret language, the language of poetry. I find your poems speak to what is moving from the invisible to the visible now, at this mysterious threshold where Spirits cross over. This is wondrous and immensely useful, spiritually speaking, and I thrill to participate as a receiver – and returning the gift here in these few words of gratitude.
Sage reminder Don.
Don…I LOVE this poem! And the fog machine has been working overtime there days….
Thank you for this sacred image Don, I’m feeling the call of the season as well, drawing down and in, one with the earth’s energetic movement.
Calming and lovely. Thank you, Don