Pandora by Odilon Redon, 1910-12
Pandora Listens
after a painting by Odilon Redon
This is the last day
daisies will speak
without needing translation.
Underfoot, their crushed petals
will still hold the beauty
of sun-centered seeds
for tomorrow’s fields,
But who will listen?
This is the last day
clouds will hover
and hold rain
without being blamed
for too much
or too little.
This will be the last day
for the shadows of mountains
to anoint
the ambitions of pilgrims
with prayers for ascent.
Pandora holds the box
tenderly, loving
these leftover gifts
of wordless seeds
silent shadows
and cumulus curiosity.
Pandora listens
with her whole heart.
Hope speaks
in a million ways.
She hears the whole earth
praying.
Wendy Jean MacLean is an award-winning poet with four books of poetry and several commissioned musical collaborations with Canadian composers. She is a spiritual director, leader of a weekly meditation group, and ordained minister of the United Church of Canada. Through CenterQuest School of Spiritual Direction, she hosts a writing community called “The Poetry Studio.” Wendy is a member of the Deeptime Leadership Wellness Network, and one of a trio called “The Poetry Hags.” Publications include Crosswinds, Gathering, Green Spirit, Amethyst Review, Presence, and Kosmos. wendyjeanmaclean@gmail.com
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