Advice to Water - David Beckman

[Larry Robinson]

Advice to Water

Seep in at foundation cracks and out
at gutters and drains. Ram up against 
dams and laugh at drywall. Observe 
with pleasure how you adjust to one-inch 
pipes, faucets and crystal goblets. Bear 

the indignity of being poured over your 
cousin, crushed ice, and forced to share 
a glass with distilled spirits; it makes many 
people happy. Condone frogs. Know that along 
with earth, wind and fire you are the frequent 

embodiment of myth and hope. Accept this 
graciously. As our damage to the planet catches 
up with us, teach us to respect and conserve you, 
love and revere you – something we’ve failed 
at, badly. Accept being sucked skyward, 

warehoused in dark clouds and pitched down 
without notice. Forgive those who call this 
“bad weather” -- perhaps too late, we know 
that it’s anything but. Look after us, if you’ve 
a mind to. Not that we deserve it.

	- David Beckman