In Portland, we were longing for spring when snow fell on the budding daffodils and crocuses. In this beautiful haibun (a Japanese form that combines haiku and prose), Marie Bates reflects on how we look for hope in nature.
Spring Hope
by Marie Bates
Standing in wet sleeping grass, I survey the brown rotting
boards and packed cold earth of early spring. Embracing the memory of callouses
and dirty fingernails, of sweat and grit dried on a forehead smeared with
SPF30, I cradle a clump of orange marigolds in cupped hands, tickle the roots
loose with bare fingers aching with cold, and place the colorful promise -
carefully, carefully - into the loamy darkness. I breathe deeply. Anticipation
of sunlight and longer days fills my soul. I am hope.
Snow drifts silently
while it gently covers the
yellow daffodils.
About the Author: Marie Bates was born and raised in Los Angeles, California and has a B.A. in English from Portland State University. She believes travel, books, bikes and good food are among the essentials for a happy life.
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