Turn your face into the wind!
Allow the gale to snuff a moment's breath
and force your eyelids blinded shut.
Then turn and gasp for life,
but only after having known the force
of nature.

The earth's natural forces,
that in a second's time
could douse alife,
that in a gusty whim
could stifle a lifelong dream
that in half a note of music
could silence your finest hymn.

Turn your face into the wild wind!
Let it ruffle your hair
and the core of your spirit.
Let it bend your body
and the posture of your arrogance.
The turn away and breath again
slow breaths of humility.

Those black rolling clouds that
cast shadows on your face
also bring life giving waters.
The winds that threaten your fortress
bring balance
to your inner sea of tranquility.


Turn your face into the wind!
Bow in gratefulness to the storm
and to the thunder.
They are the breath
and the voice of God.

Elizabeth Santos