AFTER THE MONSOON

The clouds had argued through the night, Then morning opened clear and bright. The tired roofs began to shine, Each drop of rain a silver line. The dusty leaves were washed and new, The sky had found a deeper blue. A sparrow shook its little wing, As if the world had learned to sing. The road held pieces of the sky In puddles where the clouds went by. The scent of earth rose warm and sweet, And gathered softly round my feet. The trees stood tall, their thirst now gone, The fields put fresh green clothing on. A distant river, full and strong, Carried the night’s old storm along. Nature does not fear the rain, It drinks the dark and blooms again. And every storm that clouds our sight May leave the world with clearer light.