The Four Teachers

I was cruelly stung by a bitter wind

When my gloves were lost and my cover thin

I was soaked like soil that had turned to mud

By a whipping rain verging on a flood

 

I was coated thick by an earthen clay

On a walk meant to improve my day

I was singed and scorched by a licking flame

And a shifting log was the one to blame

 

Yet a blowing wind once did clear my mind

With its warm caress I was left sublime

And the succulence of a warm spring shower

Washed my sins from me and restored my power

 

Then a rich dark soil on my digging hands

Reconnected me made me understand

And a glowing fire gently lit my way

Still allowing stars to proclaim their say

 

Elements can teach what we need to learn

About giving in to get what is earned

About being sure we are victims still

If we pass the blame and forget our will

 

That the strongest souls can weaken yet

And each moment lived stays a moment met

Every element can a mercy give

To remind us what it means to live