275

we can be
brief
without sound-bites
that are extreme
the other way

while
of course
beyond verbosity

we can punch with words

we can overwhelm instead
or more
with
reason
and with courage

they need such words in
western Carolina
Florida
in western Asis
too

and all the places
that need healing
still

they need work
we know
more than
words
though words will
give the order
as well as
keep us going

how about
few words with
power inside
with which
words invoke power
to work
to expend our better energies

say

we love you
and we’ll help you
meaning
significance
and practicality

and
we’re coming
and we’re there
with
more than wishes
alone
rather with agendas for
health
and maybe peace
upon the land
and in our
minds
and in our
hearts
and in our
souls

too much of you
has perished
lost
too much
and with few words
we’re on our way
with actions
and resources
in hope of nature’s and our own
cessation
of destruction
at least
long enough to heal
and
with God’s help
perhaps
to remain whole
on these parts
our people
of Earth

c l couch


photo by MJ Tangonan on Unsplash 
Chimney Rock, North Carolina
(my family tells me Chimney Rock the town’s no longer there)