Chilly Summer Solstice Sunrise Reflection

From a slightly beaten track in Llanquihue, Chile

0615 they said you’d arrive.
I was on time, ready.

But it was 0643 before I caught my first glimpse
from the valley below. 

Your late arrival a gift, wrapped in a
fresh southerly summer sea of wildflower. 
And more.

Mist thick to the west
a halo of peach fuzz resting wistful
over farmhouse and copse.

To the north, cock crow and geese flap
And the hollow growl of a grumpy dog
awakened too soon.

In the east, that sapphire tease
interrupted by flight and foreplay of Chirihue
above a copper-bathed hedge.

Then finally, finally,
like a victorious fisherman
showing off his catch, you return.
A bright heat rising over the ridgeline
of a new year.

And bringing me a gentle reminder:
Not be enslaved by time or timetable.