The Lake

The placid lake with hardly a ripple
lies hidden in the mountains --
A refuge from the fire-ravaged
forests and scorching, dusty plains.
 
When I visit for the serenity,
ducks gather on the other side
and fish drift to the crystal depths
but the water is draining like a falling tide.
 
The water flows to the cities
to indulge everyone's needs
while the biosphere’s creatures
are living on scraps and seeds.
 
They say the lake will fill again
and the water will sparkle in glory.
And then I will return
and absorb its quiet beauty.
 
© 2022 Larry Kilham