Snowfall

One giant sneeze should be able
to clear a path, such softness
of fallen snow upon the

sidewalk, upon the balcony,
the driveway. But, still a
chore as I continue to shovel
the powder. Whew.

Why not enter into the joy
of limbering up muscles, no sweat
required for this task,
the lightness of white crystals?

A few years ago my snowshoes
trod with excitement as
they formed an oval trail, the tails from
these babiche-wrapped pieces
saluting friends

following. Back to the present, there
are tasks a-waiting in the
house, calls to make, vacuuming,
dishes, and---and

but then, I remember peace in
Nature’s stillness, rabbit-
tramping trails, wild through
fallen snow, and curlicue flakes
lifting across

their footsteps, reminds me of
our heritage, a natural beauty, this
blend of rural and town.
Finally, I finish the job at hand.

© Richard L. Provencher