Hygroscopically

Hygroscopically,
the bottoms of the stems of leaves extend
when dewpoints rise
and so the whiteness of the waving trees in summer
as the leaves turn over signifies
the possibility of storms.

Internally, 
a hidden muscle strained to breaking
contemplates this cue 
from vegetative wisdom and inclines
its hope toward following that loosened lead
and turning over its own leaves to breathe
more easily
as inner air builds moisture
for a coming healing storm.

July 21 2011