The Congenial Guest

THE CONGENIAL GUEST


The clouds above began to grow dark and billow upward in large clumps of cumulus cotton. Only small openings within the formation allowed specular shafts of light to reach the ground. In turn, the fields took on a silver hue much like sterling flatware, polished in anticipation of the arrival of the much-anticipated guest.

She arrived and entered the stage as a small, but building, breeze. Once inside, she was warmly greeted and glistening stemware was held aloft in honor of her visit. Along with her, she had brought sweet liquor, to be shared by all beneath the bold canopy. It was first offered in small quantities, to be tasted and swirled within the parched pallet of the ground below. Once approved, it began to flow hardily and with gusto. In round after round, the land lapped up the sumptuous liquid, begging that another round be poured to drench it's never ending thirst. For a period, the petition was granted.

Then, as quickly as the guest had arrived, she departed, leaving her rainbow calling card and a promise to return. Satisfied, the earth lay quietly in soft slumber, slowly consuming the last drops of nature's mead. Small birds returned to voice their approval of the blithe afternoon tea. All was well.