desert rain

scorching sun endured onward with heavy load
a row camels weaving rhythmic crawl onward
snake winding sway weave unhurried obedient
swing to-and-fro up-and-down back-and-forth

unceasing haul a path of danger ahead
an ancient bleak dismal lifeless track
abandoned arid land in peril of death
pitiless uncomplaining chastised

caravan route camels bear nomads' large cargo
tiger's gold shadow striped white and black

lonely forsaken desolate wasteland
ageless barren dunes endless trail
blinding burning wind whip lashes
scalding dry sandstorms shrill rage

drifting visions swimming phantoms
ghosts glisten glass silver shimmers
vanish disappearing breath of dreams
mirage desperate hope's deception

on and on endless trail relentless dare hope
lazily clouds drift

ever always without mercy or kindness
unbearable the harsh murdering sun
walk dry glowing coals scream for shade
thirsting begging water in dying breaths

longing for swallows sweet cold water
pleasure of rest shade and coolness
yearning for clean crystal fresh waters 
rasping dry breath want cold streams

exhausted stagger stumbling fiery dunes
scorching sands of lion yellow sun eyes

wanting cool breath parched earth burning
boiling blood and sweat ever onwards
weak suffer never ending no love or hope
giving their last to desert and sun and sand

helpless craving soothing water and rest
heat subsides evening shade silent comfort
of merciful cool gentle breezes and peace
drizzles first droplets wet glittering hope

deep dark grey ever long-suffering awaited
dark calm and black cloud storm pleaded

desire dreamt of grass palms and pools
dreamt sweet relief gentle fresh green
restless reeds tremble shake and dance
quiet peace silence before the storm

lightning alive thunder breaks quiet stillness
sudden skies open heavenly heaven miracle
burst shatters the sky pouring soaking wet
strength renewed courage vigour refreshed 

evening wondrous grace delight spirits revive
worship and prayer blissful thanksgiving
camels kneel drink deep swills

~ ~ ¥ ~ ~
~

My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God. As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God! I stretch forth my hands unto thee: my soul thirsteth after thee. For with thee is the fountain of life, rivers in high places, and fountains in the midst of the valleys!

Rose of Sharon lily of the valleys, a fountain of gardens, a well of living waters and streams from Lebanon, as well the singers as the players on instruments shall be there, all my springs are in thee!
~

Psalms 42:2,1 ; 143:6 ; 36:9 ; Isaiah 41:18 ;
Song of Songs 2:1 ; 4:15 ; Psalms 87:7
KJV