Tambourine trees are welcoming,
but the river’s disappearing,
slow ride on the gorgeous,
shrinking artery of green.

Branches submerged for decades
reappearing.
A sage’s fingers pointing downstream.

In the lull of the current,
a hush. Youthful skin on a dead branch
reminds us we can be
baptized more than once.

Mid-river, time stills.
The days could fizz on forever
squeezed between lime hills.

Shallow whitewater rapids
crossed like underwater mountains.
The trek is treacherous,
but a muddy riverbank lies ahead.

Summer will depart from us,
but not without cause for forgiveness.

When we see heavy clouds above,
they remind us of the water
floating us on in a labor of love.

©2023 | K.F. Hartless


Cover photo by Photography314

JJ Grey & Mofro “This River”

7 responses to “Labor of Love”

  1. I love your words .Anita

    Liked by 2 people

  2. Lovely read, thanks.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I’m so glad you enjoyed this one. Thanks, J M.

      Liked by 1 person

  3. So beautiful and vivid, as always! I just love your poetry so much. 🍁

    Liked by 1 person

  4. This makes me smile so big. Thank you. 💜

    Like

  5. This must be the place, the poem Playful Panda referenced today. What a place indeed🏕🌊🌳🦋

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  6. […] reminded me a touch of one of my own poem’s “Labor of Love.” I’ hadn’t seen it for a few years, and if you haven’t had the chance to read it, […]

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