How quietly the earth breathes forth new life.
How eagerly the sun bleeds forth the spring.

I am listening to seeds breaking open,
To roots growing strong beneath the ground,
To green shoots rising up from winter wombs.

I am listening to thorns blossoming,
To barren branches laughing out new growth,
To wildflowers dancing through the meadow.

I am listening to the forest filling up with song.
I am listening to the earth filling up with life.
I am listening to trees filling up with leaves.

I am listening to the sky with its many changing moods,
To flashes of lightning, peals of thunder,
To opening buds and greening grass.
I am listening to the breaking forth of light
In the vestibule of dawn.

I am listening to the freshness of the morning.
I am listening to the rain drops
Giving hope to thirsty gardens.

I am listening to the orchards
Pregnant with new life.

I am listening to the flowers
Bursting forth in rainbow colors.

I am listening to the brook,
To the song of happy waters.

I am listening to music
Rising up from all the earth.

I am listening to spring
Soaring in on wings of life.

I am listening to the sounds of spring.

I am listening to prayers
Pouring forth from feathered throats.

I am listening to prayers
Rising up from misty waters.

I am listening to prayers
Of a meadow crowned with dawn.

I am listening to the growing
In the garden of my heart.

I am listening to my heart
Singing songs of resurrection.

I am listening to the colors of life.

I am listening to winter
Handing over spring.

I am listening to the poetry of spring.
I am listening.

Macrina Wiederkehr is a Benedictine Sister, Author, Spiritual Guide, Seeker of Truth, Lover of the spiritual journey.