Hope
Tumbling down the cataract,
Rainbows shimmer in the air,
Torrent roars, and tinkling sounds,
Splashing water everywhere.
Down and down the rocky slope,
Plunging to the pool below,
Dogs barking, children laughing
Running beside the water flow.
Stepping stones across the stream,
Hopping, skipping, falling in,
Picnics on the river bank,
Parents watch their children swim.
Flashing past the crumbling Mill,
The Leat all choked with weeds,
The breeze through dandelion clocks,
Releasing all their seeds.
Narrow, swifter, foaming currents,
Heading for the weir,
Warning signs all around,
DO NOT SWIM NEAR HERE!
Slower, wider, ripples forming,
Fish and birds abound,
Coloured streaks in air and water,
Cries of, “Look at what I’ve found!”
Through the town and out beyond,
Past bridges old and new,
People passing overhead,
Stop to admire the view.
Streams and rivers joined the flow,
Pushing toward the tide,
Bobbing floats and fishing boats,
Along the harbourside.
Its journey’s end is now in sight,
As it slows to meet the sea,
Spring water mingling with the salt,
Where at last it can be free.