For Don Welch

Seed thrown

from calloused hands,

our thoughts

flower in newly

lengthened day,

beauty of May

marks our world's 

words in your smile,

our sprouting splendor,

in fields of maize,

but fall days

raze us

and you,

bent in a corner,

huddle and ponder

crop outcomes

and bulk prices

as Nebraska

winter's 

icy fingers

steal your breath

the cold recoils,

and creation

nurtures creator.