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
