Jack Pichotta

Called out to play, on dusty street,
by neighbor kids from near-by homes.
Games of run and hide and catch,
Until called home by mom.

Kojo’s Grocery, a walk away,
Gardens in backyards.
food from family farms,
and that which nature shared

The seasons came with annual promise
Winter, Summer, Spring and Fall.
Each with usual unique gifts –
seeing life renewed

Welcomed rains – when softly falling.
Searched for faces in the clouds
Loved the thunder and the lightning
Never to be feared.

Fished Keene’s Creek not far from home,
Water shared with trout and chubs.
changed from Creek to Lake –
being one with nature

On land and sea – All life renewed
Vibrant, healthy, treasured.
Little concern, or thought, for growing losses-
understood but hidden.

Change was certain,
when we were young,
but never was it feared;
until life’s beauty was less.

Nature told us; Be more careful,
warnings loud and clear.
Much of beauty may be saved,
If harmful change is changed.