Kanani Incarnate

A warm el niño wind with its tongue
stuck out: Across the water
came Kanani. Necessity brought
her here-- the leeward pull of
many hearts that reached for her, and hers
pushing East, all conspiring
to feel their joyful pulse together.

She was damp green fronds of cane,
kindled by hugs and heartland music,
that smoldered and gave up their
smiling scent. Kanani incarnate--
you were so well missed before
we ever tasted you. How will we
live now, with only your words?