R A Ruadh

Price of spring

Finally a sunny day
a perfect start to black fly season
but I soldier through their attacks
planting flowers in hanging baskets

It feels good to have dirt
under my fingernails
blackening my hands 
and nose as I swipe at flies

Pansies, sweet alyssum
nasturtiums and some ivy
overflowing and gracefully
trailing in the wind

As I press the flowers
into the dirt a tiny breeze
brushes my hand
a bee exploring the blossoms

Almost done and a rumble
circles around my elbow
announcing the arrival of
an emerald green hummingbird

I endure the biting flies
so as not to disturb bee or bird
knowing I will scratch for days
in memory of their pollinating visits

Blue Ridge sky at 6

I lie back and let myself
rise into the sky

I am surrounded by stars
endless darkness a sense of sound

I miss my sense of smell
cannot feel body breath 

I find freedom has a price
nothing can touch or harm

I am alone while at one
all and nothing at the same time

I wonder how long to stay
and if the earth will still be there

I lie back and let myself
fall from the sky