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Rain Riders

Like a catch and release fisherman my former flame set me free
Heart hurting, I count my blessings hoping to call back Contentment,
my usual companion My home, my refuge, fails to lift the descending gloom

Restless, discontent, I call a friend, “Can you ride?”
Large clouds are looming, the temperature drops It’s not an inviting day
More accustomed to the heat of summer we don extra layers
With the courage of crocuses we burst out into the April afternoon
A shower threatens, but we are spinning, our cadence high
We fling a ‘Catch me if you can!’ dare at the darkening sky

We round the corner at Roosters and approach the intersection
The choices are a quick trip back home or a venture into the unknown
Lightly, I say, “Last chance to bail out.” She only pauses a moment
Before I hear her reply, “I’m up for it.” Relieved I smile

Out on the road we talk of Girl things, God things
I relate to her latest published poem
Where ironed sheets become an offering
Reflecting the art of cherishing our gifts
The Restoration of my home mirrors my heart.
Long neglected, now it’s scrubbed, painted
Decorated anew, as I clear the past of clutter and debris
Windows, expansive, open my home and mind
To warmth from the sun, wonder from the stars
Home and life, Transformed
This ordinary effort is my offering for the Alter

Car back! We glide in single file to the shoulder
The Snake, speeding by is an angry blur
Jagged cliffs loom on our left but Endorphins await us
On the crest of Evans Hill
Now the downpour starts and we exclaim with surprise
Tucked in tight I follow my friend’s wheel
Together we face the deluge with bravo
As we charge ahead on our two wheeled steeds

I sought comfort in the serenity of my surroundings
But Grace finds me on the rough shoulder of Highway 12
Soaked to the skin, cars roaring by
Baptized by Nature my soul blooms with belonging
I embrace the day with joy

--Helen Holmes