on the cusp of morning
a new day a new
beginning
cleared of fog and snow
you rise
a phoenix
renewed and recreated
the winds blow across your wings
ruffling you feathers
and the sleet
taps out your name
you rise above the trees
see clearly for the first time and survey
the whole of your world
finally alight upon a
barren branch
and sleep
and dream
what words
will not portray
Odarka Polanskyj Stockert is a New Jersey native poet and and long time member of South Mountain Poets. She is also a long time collaborator of the Yara Arts Group, resident at the La Mama, etc. in New York City and has performed in many Yara poetry and experimental theater events and productions. Odarka is a harpist, poet and songwriter, an engineer and inventor. She lives in Millburn, with her family. Visit her Website: http://www.myspace.com/odarkasharp.