Taking in the Show

The rain lands like fireworks on my window shield,
then frantically races downward, trying to be the fastest.
It pours from awnings, roofs, umbrellas, spouts.
The lightening illuminates the shadows
and reveals all that is hiding.
The thunder booms, insisting on being recognized.

I sit, taking in the show.
Goosebumps erupt along my body and I turn on the heater...in August.
My hair, my clothes, my shoes drip with excessive water.
Cellos, violins, timpani play on the radio.
And I sit.

I turn inward and am mindful of my breath.
The first thing a human does...and the last.
The life force of all creatures.
Lungs expand, then contract.
Life flows through me with such a simple act.

Wash away all staleness, regret, anger.
Cleanse me from entitlement.
Just as the rain perfectly accomplishes its' purpose,
help me to guard my steps so that in my last breath,
I will know my life was not wasted.

August 19, 2018