Linger

Comfort creeps from unlikely places

from folds in clouds

like unfurled peonies eager to pop

pounce and fill your head with petals.

Linger a little longer

a cloud once told you,

and let me rain on you.

.

If you would stay awhile and listen

as jingles of raindrops drench every strand

of hair; let your face listen as it drinks

because if you dither you may miss

this reconnection with what you are.

.

You are more than half water;

and water finds itself

even if a cloud drifts

know that it will return one day.

Linger longer and lick the drops

from the tips of your fingers

taste the life that cloaks you in itself

like lava, silk,

your lover’s hands.

.

Allow the clouds to clothe you

in their watery release

Let their comfort find you; fill you

with after-rain scent of pine, and wet stone--

earthy, pungent, tinge of mossy green.

Just wait. And watch. Listen.

....Rain sings.

.

Clouds compose their melody

drench you like a baptism

and invite you

to dance

or sleep to their lullabye

.

Then after the rain, wrap a rug

around your shoulders,

sit by the glow of a crackling fire,

curl your fingers around a hot mug of

chocolate, tea, or cheeky toddy tipple.

.

Once more, let comfort find you

next time you disappear.

Because when clouds return in peace

you might miss their tender touch. Still,

know that they can see you

if only you will linger

just a little longer.