I Saw Sunshine Today

Just before the wind came up, I stood atop the hill Above my field, muttering A curse that slurred into An invocation. I know Better than to pray, to Mortgage the success of my Crops to an idea in the Clouds. Those clouds, at least Were swollen with The rain I’d gambled on weeks Ago, riding my luck from Seed blocks to greenhouse to planting. The old-timers tell me they can Feel it in the turning Of the seasons, and act accordingly. I still rely on the animals, the weather, And the extension service, and act accordingly. It’s never a sure bet, though, Hence the muttering. It’d been Too dry, too hot, so when I saw sunshine today, I tasted anger. Then, It rained, and the sunshine after the Storm smelled of dirt. That’s a beautiful smell, one that anchors. My luck had held, and my boots Collected flecks of mud on my descent.