January Flood

The Sangamon River gently flowing

Peaceful, serene, welcoming

Has raised her pretty head

And shook her locks loose

Gobbling up the snow, rain and ice

Slowly swelling with pride

Water rising to fill her banks

Then greedily becoming violent

Torrential and aggressive

Sweeping what she could along

Debris, trees, rubbish and soil

Making a bobbing trip downstream

Backing up and lying still

In fields and farmlands

Until she caresses the hill

Giving way to geese and quiet

Having had enough, exhausted

She settles down

Leaving behind corn stalks and mud

And a replenishing gift for spring fishing

She is a precious queen

Lazy or vicious

Nature’s beautiful lady

Sharing her peaceful blessings

-Kate Riley