WIDE OPEN

Slate gray skies
Empty trees
The fledgling leaves
Have left their nests
Have gone to ground

Late afternoon
The setting sun
Almost hidden
Behind wispy clouds
Barely seen through empty trees

While inside the house
Warm and rambling thoughts
Of baking bread and scones and stuff
Of rich and hearty soups bubbling upon the stove
Of contented babies at the breast

All this from the mom and dad
New to this baby game but learning
Staying warm and high and loving
And often wondering
Just how soon they can make another

Feeling at home
Under slate gray skies
Opening their hearts
Wide open
And sharing their love
That's all they've ever had to give
Anyway

Eugene Marks