High Desert Afternoon

Snow banners sing from silent mountains.
The bare willows sway as they receive
A flight of small brown birds.
On the desert floor water rests patiently,
Waiting for entry after a sudden storm.
There is no rush.
A strip of clouds protects the sun
To keep it from burning out.
Boulders sit in practice of nothing.
While creatures crouch low in the shadows
Watching time unseen.