The skies rumble
Grey clouds forming dark
Looming low as the wind rises
You should stay inside
Avoid the potential hail and lightning
But it’s been so long since it rained
The desert sun shriveling every plant
Except the cacti and the succulents
As your barefeet hit the hot sand
Large drops of water
Hit the ground
Small explosions sounding
Like smiled hellos in passing
Among parked cars and reggae
He told you he wouldn’t stay
He told you he didn’t want more than a moment
Of your time
But how he rained on you
Praise and attention
Smiles and intelligent conversation
And you danced barefoot in the storm
With a smile radiant
The lightning barely missing
The thunder roaring wild in your veins
Air crackled
Rivers were born, raging
Dying as the clouds moved along
The quiet pronounced the end
Buildings sparkled
The accumulated dust washed away
Days later the desert burst into bloom
Your dress hung from a line snapping
Reproaches in the sweltering breeze
You couldn’t hear it as your feet
Tapped rhythms on the cool tile floor
You bowed to your reflection
Which winked back at you
Though you might miss the rain at times
The desert heart is always blooming
Wild and free
