Clean Up

The stormy spring has left a miniature dirt replica of the Grand Canyon on the far end of the freshly leveled field. A single tree, broken by the wind, lies across the turning row. It's time to clean up, so the planting season can continue. The roar of the chainsaw fills the quiet country setting. The tractor seemingly effortlessly pulls away the sawn off limbs. Green leaves that haven't yet learned they're already dead sweep the earth in one final tribute to their cleansing role in nature. The acrid smell of smoke fills the air as the diesel fueled fire begins to blaze. In time, only ashes remain. But beauty often rises from the ashes of life.

Soon the farmer will smooth the dirt. The beds will once again take shape. And new life will be placed in the soil....