Walking old sandy country lanes
rough and potholed,
throwing up some mist-like dust;
the summer turns out dry and hot.

Blossoms are abundant. Primroses in
the hedgerows are jostling with bluebells.
Surprisingly the sap green of trees,
like the dawn chorus of morning
bursts suddenly upon me.

The whole suggestion of summer's long-awaited
glories, emanating from the countryside around
is entirely divorced from my usual perceptions
of nature. God presents His world so different
to me, free for a few hours of responsibilities.

The weather bathes me in a delightful balm,
I am part of everything: the sun, sky, verdant,
celadon, cypress and the bice;
I belong to every shade of every little glorious
and varied golden inch of nature.

Today is simply today,
a beautiful sun-filled summer day.
Thank You, Lord, for this gift.

Marjon van Bruggen.