far but near. dwelling. resting. it’s safe now.

Flowers After a Storm — Hermann hesse

Brotherly, and all aligned the same,
They stand, bowed down, still dripping in the wind —
Afraid, bewildered yet, and blinded by the rain,
And some too frail lie shattered, overcome.

Yet slowly, dazed, they lift their heads once more,
Timidly turning to the cherished light.
Brotherly, they dare a first faint smile:
“We are still here — the enemy has not devoured us.”

The sight reminds me of so many hours
When I, benumbed in dark and driven life,
Out of the night and wretchedness returned
To gracious Light, which I with thanks adore.