Before

Before

Before 

we wake, 

we are huddled under 

blankets 

and dreaming. 

 

Before 

we wake 

there are others 

living, 

breathing, 

chirping, 

growing. 

 

Before 

we wake 

the ocean's waves 

soak its rocky beaches. 

 

Before 

we wake 

birds talk 

about what today 

will bring. 

 

Before 

we wake 

the trees search 

for heat 

and light 

amidst night. 

 

And... 

 

Before 

we wake,  

the world 

goes on. 

Sayornis p.

VT

14 years old

Popcorn

VT

13 years old

The Voice

May 2024