Winter Language

Winter Language

Unlike the cling and drag of ice 
this cold snow explodes as birds alight
beside its weightless waiting.  Poof … and 
puff … and drift … sketch the tiny impact
of their feet and feathers   a winter wood
alive with brief exquisite showers   
until the wind regains its voice  
sweeps away the dialect of hours. 

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Impermanence has been the theme of 2026, and of this March in particular.

Not resignation to the terrible things happening in our world, but reminders that what we often take for granted can be so easily destroyed—and what makes us most hopeful and joyful is in fact extraordinarily delicate and imperiled. The homes and lives of ordinary people, the lemon groves, gardens, power and water systems, fields of grain, schools, health care facilities, factories, and yes, even oil and gas infrastructure. And of course, our confidence in the gifts of honesty, respect, and intelligent leadership so easily destroyed. Our hope for an open, pluralistic, democratic political structure and the culture of courage, self-examination, respect and creativity that is required to keep it flourishing are in terrible danger.

I continue to be astonished that a man so clearly deranged, so far beyond anything like compassion, sympathy, and grace can be wielding the machinery of economic, diplomatic, and military power impulsively and brutally, with a team of compliant lackeys. And many who call themselves Christian continue to support him.

So, when I look at the woods after another late winter snowstorm, I admire its beauty and it reminds me of the dangers ongoing. But it’s not just projection of my alarm onto the countryside around me. It is the woods calmly reminding me that such fragility abounds and is rich and incredibly varied, and—strangely—powerful.

To see the language of snow and branches and birds and wind in its beauty, uniqueness and impermanence…somehow it renews and calms.

So I will be both outraged and determined in the company of millions in the No Kings Rally events throughout the nation this Saturday, March 28. I will be there knowing things have changed but also that with our hope and determination they can change again. I hope you will take part in any and every way you can.

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Upcoming Event

“Natural Selections” at North Branch Nature Center
Friday, April 3--7:00-9:00 pm

To register, click here:

I am excited that again this year we are celebrating and sharing the gifts of Poetry, Natural Wonder, and Music in a fundraising event for this remarkable community institution.

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