Image: Melanie Kyer
Vespers
Evening light washes the glare from the day
As the sharp edge between air and substance fades
And shadows roll in as silently as the tide.
The last ray of sun to clear the trees
Ripples with the current of the river
Until they are both stilled.
Rustling leaves hush to a gentle whisper
Becoming a soft, murmuring background
To a cardinal’s soaring song of praise.
The cooling air sends warm columns aloft
The scent of flowers rising with them
Like a fragrant offering.
The sun sets
And another day sighs deeply
As it gives way to another night.
Barbara Ryther
6/13/2024