Clouds pile up on each other’s shoulders
Outlined as a child would draw
With a new crayon.
The silence is immense.
Then, on the leading edge of the storm
The wind begins to make speeches.
Dry corn shucks swirl.
Loose barn siding rattles.
A sweet breath blows across the land.
Now hear the disorder in the thunder.
The earth patiently awaits
that dry and empty place.
Then it begins.
The rain seems like applause.
Listen to the newly drenched earth.
It, too, has something to say.
