July

Heat

that dries us to bones yet we drink it in like we denounce the cold

As it

Teaches you to be joyful about the little things

The tall glass of water

The random sun shower

The

Shade in the park the

Sunset and breeze felt after dark

Bonding with other joyful beings

Throwing time around, like surplus cash, at vacations, trips, and weekend excursions

Time at home on the porch with legs reclined

And a glass of iced tea

Because you can

Suddenly reminded of the neighbors around us we do not know

As we all, collectively praise the sunshine

And get creative in ways to do it

Tolerating the smell of smoke for protecting outdoor rituals

Standing in the masses singing songs

And traveling who knows where just cuz

Moments of laughter encapsulating seconds of happiness

Photos in exotic places

Bucket list items scratched through

But then there are days of

Soft reminders that we are not meant for the extreme

Elements

Sun-baked fatigue sets in, forcing slow weekends

slow midday gatherings

slow mornings alone

To standing with the freezer door open

Sighs at the slight mechanical breeze

There are days of looming heat haze

Where time seems to stand still, painfully

And we begin to look forward,

To season’s change