Illuminating Day 

The dark shades of night have
retreated in a slow-motion rhythm
of dawn inviting the resting sun
to its ritualized heavenly throne to
preside with its imperial majesty
over another late summer day.
A shimmering haze of first light
pierces the gloom of night
still sizzling with the humidity
of previous days' lingering heat.
The tranquility of the early
morning forest is suddenly
graced with the sweet, bright notes
of a cardinal's trill. And with that
sublime fanfare, the risen sun
blazes its golden breath through the
forest canopy, illuminating day.