Hard Rain and Tulips

It's spring, when the hard rain falls
and strips camellia heads from hanging branches.

It's spring, when yellow tulips stand up
brave against hail and wind.

It's spring and people are out walking between showers
keeping safe distances, waving hello

acknowledging with rueful smiles how the world changed
since winter turned toward this hard spring.

Available! High-Voltage Lines, Knocking from Inside