Poem 0170: nature’s power

Since Thursday, nature has been boldly
Requesting my attention.
It was Thursday when lightning ripped a hole
In the tall pine tree next to the house.

The rip went from top to bottom.
Bits were strewn everywhere across the yard
And up on the roof.
A board in the fence was broken.
The garage door opener no longer works.

Nature has power.

Today, in the throes of my workday,
My desk chair suddenly wobbled in that
Telltale way. It was as if the whole world
Was shaking underneath me.
At least the little bit of it near enough by
To cascade into my legs and the legs of
My chair.

I knew that sensation from 1989.
So long ago and so recent.
Oakland. Bridges and freeways
Came down that day.
Today, as I understand it, there
Was less drama, but no less of an
Attention getter for me.

Nature: you have my attention.
I believe that you have power.

Thank you.

I love you.