Endlessly Parched

In the warmth of the sun

I am thankful,

but still…

between the cactus flowers

and the radiant sunsets

is coarse sand,

tumbleweed,

snake venom.

Off in the distance

there might be an oasis

cool water to bathe in

or maybe –

my thirst casts a mirage.

I ponder reality

with lips,

endlessly parched.