The sandhill cranes returned this week,
in graceful formations that cut through the fog
and gray skies. Surprised, I heard their muted
trumpet calls and turned to welcome them,
not too long gone, now all seasons are crimped
by heat and drought, and struggle to live as fully
as they once did. Still, the sandhill cranes returned,
and robins, rain, and willow green, too, and like
one who waits for the sight of a soldier descending
the hill towards home, when things I’ve missed
return again, the sharp pain of yearning releases
and a thousand blossoms of something like hope
bloom in the world I imagine still possible: peace,
perhaps–families sure of their footing, and safe.
And if men will yet make time to strafe their hate, to burn to ash what breathes, what they say proves us better,
I bow to our Earth, that still takes time to renew
love’s promises, delivering old friends, flying back
like memories of better days, sounding good news
to hold in my heart against the coming storms.
© Copyright of all visual and written materials on The Daily Round belongs solely to Catherine M. O’Meara, 2011-Present. Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited, without the author’s written approval. No one is authorized to use Catherine O’Meara’s copyrighted material for material gain without the author’s engagement and written permission. All other visual, written, and linked materials are credited to their authors. Thank you, and gentle peace.

I loved your poem, so beautiful and tender. Loved the photos too, it’s always lovely seeing the birds return. Yikes, those skies sure do look intimidating! Love and hugs to all.xxxx
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Can you believe it’s over 22 Celsius today???! Back down to chilly tomorrow, but what a leap to summer during the past 24 hours.
Thanks for your kind words. Yes, that was a wonderfully dramatic rainstorm a couple of years ago. I loved the colors; it really didn’t follow through with as much drama as it suggested it might.
Hugs to all in your sweet kin-dom. Joy to your week! XO
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P.s can’t wait to get your new book.xxx
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Oh, how kind you are! I’m excited to hear what you think of it, my talented artist friend!
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