Listening to Finlandia in the cold early spring
as an indecisive wind wonders where to go
whether to slash at the high tops of cedars
or to ruffle the feathers of birds hopping through the yard.
It has forgotten, apparently, its place –
to bring winter snow or spring rain?
It wanders about, as if seeking help
assistance from unseen galactic and geologic forces.
It threatens reluctantly,
unlike boastful November winds, full of storm and fury
Knowing full well they can bring what they portend.
these poor spring winds – cold, skittish –
threaten the buds on branches baring themselves,
unafraid to be touched by that breath.
It stings at insolent daffodils, smiling, waving gaily
at the toothless assault waged on them.

Ah, but here comes the rain again, slanting.

Not so toothless yet, I see.

Portland, Oregon – March 12, 2016

Inspiration from The Kalevala,  or “Poems of the Kaleva District”, Compiled by Elias Lonnrot.  The Kalevala is the national folk epic of Finland.