I watched the sea change
From sapphire to leaden grey,
Streaked by a silver spear
Aimed at the sun.
The blue sky withdrew
Behind the threatening clouds,
Turning the day
Slate grey.
The leaves were still.
A wary silence filled the air
And the cooling breeze
Gently caressed my arms,
As if whispering:
This is the calm before the storm.
Then she flew into a mighty wind
And the sea answered her call.
Dark green waves tipped with white
Battered the shore.
A deep, distant drumroll of thunder
Signalled her advance.
A lightening spear tore the sky.
Then the sharp crack of exploding clouds
And the drops began.
First slow, steady hammering,
Pummeling the earth into submission.
Then all the forces rallied and raged.
The storm tore across the sea
And into the land,
Whipping trees and bushes,
Tossing their leaves in disarray.
Birds flew into the air,
Squawking in consternation.
Animals cowered in silent dread,
Seeking refuge wherever they could.
Finally, her anger spent,
She took her clouds
Cleared the sky and went.
The sun smiled once again,
Warming the washed land,
Filling the air with the perfume
Of a myriad flowers.
Refreshed, renewed and invigorated,
The birds fluffed up their feathers
And filled the day with birdsong;
Animals left their shelters
And frolicked.
And I threw my arms and face to the sun
In a dance of pure joy.
READ MORE POEMS BY SHARON HEANEY STANSFIELD