Summer Way

A welcome to summer.

Summer reaches far and near,

radiant rays, a touch of flare;
the rhododendrons lend an ear
in dew-drop morning atmosphere.

The scent of lilac in the spring,
the crust of winter far away;
nightingales fly up and sing
for summer is the time to play.

Along the banks of lakes and streams
all creatures forage big and small;
today basks in the field of dreams--
I hear the voice of summer call.

What voice is that to soothe my soul
with words as ancient as the night?
Like tapestry the lights unroll,
consigns to life a second sight.

Where is the frosty grip of snow
that seems as close as thunder claps?
The summer solstice, apropos,
decrees its timely death, perhaps.

Now longer days becalm the itch
that cabin fever gives to me;
wool socks and heavy coats with which
I utilized are now at sea.

Summer is the freedom train
which rides on structured, silver rails;
the tender of past season slain,
and peaceful strolls on verdant trails.