This is the valley where a flood once raged.
As the waters receded, its banks had been scoured.
Powerful forces had destroyed the city.

The town was rebuilt and restored.
Everyone was glad for the river sports.
The wise predicted another flood.
The people were able to escape this time.

Over the years, the valley became isolated and barren.
The rains stopped falling and the river shrank.
Flowers could not bloom along its shore.
Dragonflies and frogs were silent.
The villagers left and found a better home.

Once the people were gone, wild creatures spread.
The untamed landscape became their home.
Their powerful voices spoke of freedom.

W. Wayne B.
Kindle poetry chapbook: Poems: Hope and Love

Follow me on Twitter: @williamwayneb

© 2014 W. Wayne B.
Original image (Willamette at Gladstone). By inkogneato [Photographer does not endorse this poem.] Image license