Sudden Silence - June 14, 2026

there is a parasol of shadow along

the Tahquitz Creek pathway

near Sunrise Way

a huge mesquite has joined

hands with three Palo Verde trees

to create a living umbrella,

here’s what I feel under it -

quietude, a holy hush

a sudden silence

too soon I’m through,

back into the harsh

bright world of sunlight

for some reason

I never look back

the memory is enough

as a small reward,

a tiny gift

for life’s unforgivable nature