a burgeoning stream runs down

the middle of the fairway

scattered twigs, leaves & branches

carpet the patio floor

promised blooms of cheery marigolds,

their flaccid stems

slouched over now in defeat

tumbled chairs, tangled chimes

the wet bulk of lush greenery

pervades the gloom of the storm’s fury,

its straight-line winds & heavy rain

and yet, there shines a glimmer

of recompense as light rims

the receding gallery of clouds

and we know that soon

sunshine will once more warm

the tops of our heads,

soft breezes will again delight